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- Tasks: Lead major planning applications and engage with stakeholders to ensure smooth processes.
- Company: Join Wealden District Council, a forward-thinking local authority focused on sustainable development.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, excellent salary, pension, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing your professional skills in a dynamic setting.
- Qualifications: Substantial planning experience and strong communication skills are essential for this role.
- Other info: Hybrid working available; free parking and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: 37
Location: Hailsham / Hybrid
Looking for a role where you can sink your teeth into a range of large or complex major planning applications? Are you passionate about sustainable development and delivering for local communities? Look no further, this role is for you!
The Majors Team, part of our large Development Management service, consider some of the largest and most controversial planning applications in the district. The team does crucial work in helping the Council to deliver on its key goals of building new homes and creating employment opportunities in a sustainable way. Perhaps you’ve been looking for that opportunity to step up having tested the water with some majors work or maybe you are an experienced planner looking for the challenges of working in a district with a high level of growth. Whoever you are, we are looking for someone who can process major applications to help achieve the Council’s aspirations.
What will you be doing?
- Preparing planning reports on major and significant development proposals and presenting those schemes to planning committee.
- Providing advice and conducting negotiations with developers to achieve the best possible outcomes and deliver 5-star customer service.
- Liaising with various stakeholders, including residents, officers from other service sections, elected members, and external bodies to ensure material considerations are taken into account and that decision making is open and transparent.
- Engaging in pre-application discussions, taking opportunities to front load planning considerations and make the formal planning application process run smoothly.
What do you need?
- Substantial experience in planning and the application of expert knowledge within a planning policy or development management context.
- Customer service skills, being particularly adept at speaking with those who have conflicting demands and priorities.
- Knowledge of relevant law, policy and guidance related to planning and related matters.
- Communication and negotiation skills being able to discuss proposals in a positive, constructive, and professional manner to deliver positive planning outcomes.
What do we offer?
- Working for a great, forward-thinking Local Authority.
- Excellent salary, pension, flexible working, fantastic employee benefits and comprehensive staff health & wellbeing scheme.
- A friendly, supportive team and a range of opportunities for continuing professional development.
- Hybrid working with the ability to work from home as well as from our newly refurbished offices in Hailsham.
- Free parking.
Please note that you must have the right to work in the UK.
For more information and an informal chat about the opportunities please contact Claire Turner, Team Leader on 01892 602541, or Samuel Batchelor, Development Manager on 01892 602552.
Post Number: H1010
Closing Date: 4 July 2025
Interview Date: W/c 14 July 2025
Wealden District Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. We are committed to maintaining a diverse workforce and an inclusive work environment. We value the differences that people bring from all backgrounds and communities and all applications will be treated on merit.
To Apply
Please visit our ‘How to Apply’ page for advice on how best to complete your application. Click on the “Apply Online Now” link to be taken to our online recruitment portal. You will be prompted to log in to your existing account or create a new one. Remember to add a contact email address and mobile number when applying. Please note applications could time out. So, ensure you have created an account and save your information as you go along. We would suggest you keep a copy of your personal statement on a separate document until you are ready to paste this into your application and submit.
If you are unable to apply online, have a query or require an alternative application method, please email human.resources@wealden.gov.uk or call 01892 602424. Make sure you know the post number and include it in your email or provide it when asked during your telephone call.
Senior Planning Officer, Development Management employer: Wealden District Council
Contact Detail:
Wealden District Council Recruiting Team
human.resources@wealden.gov.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning Officer, Development Management
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific planning policies and regulations relevant to the Wealden District. Understanding local guidelines will not only help you in discussions but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the planning field, especially those who have experience with major applications. Engaging with others can provide insights into best practices and may even lead to valuable connections within the council.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences with complex planning applications during the interview. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've navigated challenges and achieved positive outcomes in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your customer service skills by preparing to discuss how you handle conflicting demands from various stakeholders. Highlighting your ability to communicate effectively and negotiate will set you apart as a candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planning Officer, Development Management
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing your application, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Planning Officer position. Highlight your relevant experience in planning and how it aligns with the job description.
Tailor Your Personal Statement: Craft a personal statement that specifically addresses the key skills mentioned in the job description, such as customer service, communication, and negotiation skills. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you meet these criteria.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, focus on substantial experience in planning and any major applications you've worked on. Be sure to mention any specific projects that showcase your ability to handle complex planning applications and engage with various stakeholders.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread and edit your documents. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your application is clear and concise. A well-presented application reflects your professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wealden District Council
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Familiarise yourself with the relevant planning policies and legislation that govern development management. Be prepared to discuss how these policies influence decision-making and how you can apply them in practice.
✨Demonstrate Customer Service Skills
Showcase your ability to handle conflicting demands and priorities effectively. Prepare examples of how you've provided excellent customer service in previous roles, especially when dealing with stakeholders who may have differing views.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
Think about how you would engage with various stakeholders, including residents and developers. Be ready to discuss strategies for ensuring open and transparent decision-making while balancing community needs and development goals.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since you'll be presenting planning reports to committees, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider rehearsing with a friend or colleague to refine your delivery and receive constructive feedback.
