At a Glance
- Tasks: Process planning applications and provide high-quality advice in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Stratford-on-Avon District Council, located in the scenic heart of Warwickshire.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, hybrid working, and health cash plans.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on your community while developing your planning skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in planning or related field; RTPI membership preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Stratford-on-Avon District Council, based in the heart of Warwickshire, is one of the most scenic and historical regions in the UK. The Council’s headquarters are located in William Shakespeare’s hometown. In the District, you will find thriving market towns, home to over 135,000 residents and a tourist destination for millions of visitors each year. We provide public services to residents, businesses, and visitors across this magnificent region, making it a great place to live, work, and visit.
At the Council, our people are our superpower. By choosing to bring your talents to our organisation, you will be joining a great team where everyone feels that they truly belong, full of dedicated people all working with passion and purpose, across a dynamic portfolio of work providing high-quality services.
Benefits:- A minimum of 25 days of annual leave, plus Bank Holidays.
- Hybrid working arrangements with the flexibility to work from home for up to 60% of your hours (dependent upon the role).
- Flexi-time scheme for a better work-life balance.
- Health Cash Plan Scheme for medical and dental expenses.
- Eye test voucher scheme.
- Everyone Active Gym Membership discount.
- Training and Development opportunities.
- Payment of one professional subscription fee.
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme to secure your future.
- Access to free Will writing services.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Salary Sacrifice schemes e.g. Cycle to Work etc.
- Free town centre parking.
What to Expect in the Role: We are looking for people who will enjoy processing planning applications, appeals, pre-application enquiries, and all related planning matters in a dynamic and geographically diverse District. Opportunities will be available to handle proposals for residential, commercial, and employment schemes in both rural and market town contexts and to get to grips with proposals within the West Midlands Green Belt and Cotswolds National Landscape.
Key Accountabilities and Responsibilities:
- To process and determine all applications submitted under the Town and Country Planning Acts and other related legislation, under the supervision of the Planners Team Leaders and Planning Manager (Applications & Committee).
- Validation of applications, carrying out site visits, professional interpretation of relevant policies and guidance, assessment of comments and consultations received.
- To present your own applications at planning committee (and regulatory committee).
- To provide high quality written pre-application advice.
- To be part of the “Duty Officer” rota of planners and senior planners.
- To arrange and attend meetings when this is the best way of progressing negotiations.
- To provide appropriate responses and negotiate with developers as required on discharge of conditions applications and sign off associated decisions.
- To prepare written representations; appeal statements; prepare for and act as the Council witness at informal hearings.
- To contribute at all times to the teams’ delivery of an excellent service and to current service performance measures.
This is a politically restricted specified post as defined by the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 and the Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009. This post is considered to be ‘public facing’ in accordance with the Immigration Act 2016 (part 7). Therefore, post holders are required to speak fluent English or have a command of spoken English that is sufficient to enable the effective performance of the role.
What You’ll Need:
- Planning Legislation Knowledge: Understanding of planning legislation, guidance, and the operation of the planning system as it pertains to development management within a Local Planning Authority.
- Technical Report Skills: Ability to quickly interpret plans and drawings and compile clear and comprehensive reports.
- Collaborative Working: Ability to work effectively and positively with colleagues and Planning Committee members.
- Design Improvement Commitment: Dedication to improving design within development management.
- Educational Qualifications: Holding a degree or postgraduate qualification in planning or a related discipline, and membership (or working towards membership) in the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
Right To Work: Applicants must have existing Right to Work in the UK, as visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): Artificial Intelligence could be a useful tool to support your application. However, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your experience. Where plagiarism has been identified, applications may be withdrawn and internal applicants may be subject to disciplinary action.
Interview Format: All interviews for this position will be held face to face, as we believe this offers the best experience for candidates and panel members.
Planner employer: WMJobs
Stratford-on-Avon District Council is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture in the picturesque setting of Shakespeare's hometown. With a strong emphasis on employee well-being, we provide generous benefits including a minimum of 25 days annual leave, hybrid working options, and extensive training opportunities to foster professional growth. Join our dedicated team and contribute to delivering high-quality public services in a dynamic and diverse district, where your talents will truly make a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planner
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Stratford-on-Avon District Council inside out! Research their recent projects and planning applications. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend local planning events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those face-to-face interviews by practising common questions related to planning legislation and collaborative working. Role-play with a friend to boost your confidence!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our fantastic team at Stratford-on-Avon District Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Planner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Planning:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for planning shine through! Share specific examples of your experience with planning legislation and how it relates to the role. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about contributing to our beautiful district.
Be Clear and Concise:Make sure your application is easy to read and straight to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that highlights your skills and experiences without unnecessary fluff!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your responses to the specific requirements of the Planner role. Mention how your background aligns with the key accountabilities and responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to make your application stand out!
How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
✨Know Your Planning Legislation
Make sure you brush up on your understanding of planning legislation and guidance. Familiarise yourself with the Town and Country Planning Acts, as well as any recent changes in the planning system. This knowledge will not only help you answer questions confidently but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to be asked about your ability to interpret plans and drawings. Practise explaining how you would compile clear and comprehensive reports based on these documents. You might even want to bring a sample report or two to showcase your skills during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with colleagues and Planning Committee members, be ready to discuss examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight your communication skills and your ability to work positively within a team setting.
✨Engage with the Community Aspect
Stratford-on-Avon is a vibrant community, so show your enthusiasm for contributing to it. Be prepared to discuss how you would handle public-facing responsibilities and engage with residents and developers alike. This will reflect your understanding of the role's impact on the community.
