At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Walsall's planning service through exciting regeneration and infrastructure projects.
- Company: Join Walsall Council, a forward-thinking local authority committed to community growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development opportunities, and a chance to shape the borough's future.
- Other info: Dynamic role with significant impact on local communities and environment.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of transforming Walsall with innovative planning and building control initiatives.
- Qualifications: Degree-level education and experience in planning or related fields required.
The predicted salary is between 84191 - 95535 £ per year.
We are pleased to be advertising this exciting role at an exceptional time to be joining Walsall's planning service. The Local Plan is set to go out to Regulation 19 in the autumn with a view to submission in December 2026. We have a number of very significant large-scale infrastructure and housing schemes going through the application process, a significant 4-year investment in planning enforcement, and we are growing the Building Control Team. In Environmental Protection, we are making significant changes around air quality measures. There is an emphasis on redeveloping derelict sites within the Borough, and all of this is within the evolving policy context of the West Midlands Combined Authority and the emerging SDS.
The role is intrinsically linked to regeneration and culture programmes, and this rare opportunity to lead planning through a time of significant transformation is one that would suit someone looking to develop their career further. Walsall is delivering an ambitious programme of regeneration, supported by substantial public and private investment, with major opportunities across town centre renewal, housing growth, employment development, transport connectivity, and place-making.
From the regeneration of Walsall Town Centre and the delivery of new residential communities to the growth opportunities presented by the Walsall Growth Zone and emerging strategic transport infrastructure, planning is at the forefront of shaping the borough's future. The service has an improvement agenda which is being led by team members. Building on the PAS review in 2025, which has seen many of the recommendations implemented, the Performance Taskforce is looking to make incremental improvements to deliver an excellent service and to deliver the best outcomes for our communities.
We would welcome applications from people with a strong track record of service improvement and transformation, along with creative ideas on how to drive higher performance within the teams. In addition, we are looking to continue the commercialisation of relevant parts of the service and would be keen to hear from people who have experience of expanding a council's discretionary service offer, for example, by increasing the use of Planning Performance Agreements and growing the market share of the Building Control Team.
As Head of Planning, you will provide visible and influential leadership, ensuring the planning service supports sustainable growth, accelerates investment, safeguards quality and design, and contributes directly to the delivery of the We Are Walsall 2040 vision.
Responsibilities:
- Act as the council’s Chief Planning Officer and principal advisor to the council and its planning committee.
- Provide professional leadership to the planning and building control service and lead the local planning authority function.
- Oversee the council’s environmental protection functions, including air quality, industrial permitting, contaminated land, noise, and odour control.
- Facilitate commercial approaches to the delivery of the planning, building control, and environmental protection services, including maximisation of income in line with the commercial strategy.
- Ensure the council operates the range of functions in line with national planning legislation, taking account of any changes in a proactive and timely manner.
- Implement a transparent model of tracking section 106 contributions across the authority and regularly report to the Section 106 Board, planning committee, and scrutiny committees.
- Ensure the timely delivery of an up-to-date local development plan for Walsall to support regeneration, investment, and place-making in the borough.
- Maintain key relationships with businesses, developers, agents, architects, housing partners, and relevant government bodies to support the council’s efforts in improving the planning and building control service.
Qualifications: Educated to degree level/Level 5 qualification in a relevant subject, membership of an appropriate professional body such as the RTPI and/or significant relevant equivalent experience.
Head of Planning & Building Control - Ref: EE08326 in Walsall employer: Walsall Council
Walsall Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff. As a Residential Childcare Worker, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children in care while benefiting from competitive pay, including additional compensation for sleep-ins, and access to ongoing training and professional growth within a dedicated team environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Planning & Building Control - Ref: EE08326 in Walsall
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Planning & Building Control - Ref: EE08326 in Walsall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Walsall Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Walsall Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Walsall Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
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The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
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Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Walsall Council.
