At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate planning breaches and manage enforcement cases from start to finish.
- Company: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council, committed to community and environmental improvement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Full driving licence required for site visits across the Borough.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and help shape the future of your community.
- Qualifications: Degree in Town Planning or related field; experience in planning enforcement preferred.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council,
You will be responsible for investigating and resolving breaches of planning control, land condition issues, and related environmental enforcement matters.
The role involves undertaking site inspections, carrying out land ownership investigations through Land Registry and other searches, and serving statutory notices including Section 330 Notices, Planning Contravention Notices, and Section 215 Notices.
The postholder manages enforcement cases from initial investigation through to compliance, including monitoring sites, coordinating works in default, and liaising with Legal Services to ensure enforcement action is undertaken correctly and cost effectively.
The role also includes providing specialist advice on tree preservation and high hedges legislation, supporting the removal of unauthorised advertisements and highway obstructions, and contributing to multi-agency environmental improvement initiatives.
Responsibilities extend to preparing reports for committees and working groups, presenting evidence at appeals and prosecutions, responding to public enquiries and correspondence, and maintaining accurate records and performance statistics to support effective service delivery.
Essential Requirements
- A degree in Town and Country Planning or related degree sufficient to enable study leading to MRTPI
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team while also demonstrating the initiative and self-motivation to work independently.
- Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate tactfully and diplomatically in challenging situations.
- Ability to respond positively and sensitively when dealing with individuals who may be upset, distressed, angry or confrontational.
- Proven ability to work under pressure, manage competing priorities and meet demanding deadlines.
- Willingness to take responsibility and make sound, informed decisions.
- Strong negotiation skills, with the ability to work constructively with developers, applicants, consultees and other interested parties to achieve positive outcomes.
- Ability to mediate between conflicting interests and facilitate balanced, practical solutions.
- Excellent organisational and time-management skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex information clearly and professionally.
- Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, elected Members, external agencies and members of the public.
About You
You will have experience in planning enforcement and a comprehensive, up-to-date understanding of planning law, policy, enforcement procedures, and the prosecution process.
You will be confident interpreting complex planning legislation, including permitted development rights, and capable of managing a demanding and varied caseload effectively.
You will hold a recognised qualification in Town Planning or possess significant relevant experience within the planning profession.
Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (MRTPI), or a commitment to working towards full membership and continuing professional development, is desirable.
The successful candidate will possess excellent communication, presentation, and organisational skills, together with strong IT literacy and the ability to work independently and make sound professional judgements.
As the role requires regular site visits across the Borough, you must hold a full driving licence, have access to a vehicle, and be able to travel independently.
Closing date
1st September 2026.
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Planning Enforcement Officer in Oldbury employer: WMJobs
West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is an exceptional employer that champions a collaborative and inclusive work culture, offering employees the chance to make a tangible impact in the public sector. With a strong focus on professional development and growth opportunities, WMCA supports its staff in navigating the complexities of local governance while fostering a dynamic environment that values innovation and adaptability. Located in the heart of the West Midlands, employees benefit from a vibrant community and access to a range of resources aimed at enhancing their career journey.
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