At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning applications for major infrastructure projects and provide technical advice to clients.
- Company: Join WSP, an award-winning consultancy with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Full-time role with opportunities for professional growth and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on significant infrastructure projects while working with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Degree in town planning and experience in securing consents for major projects.
- Other info: Be part of a global team dedicated to positive change in communities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Join to apply for the Principal Planner (Infrastructure Planning) role at WSP in the UK & Ireland. WSP is an award‑winning consultancy that employs the largest number of chartered town planners across the UK, operating within both the infrastructure and property markets. In December 2025, WSP won the RTPI’s Planning Consultancy of the Year with judges commending the team for their excellence in uniting diverse disciplines to achieve outstanding results, praising the team’s strong community engagement.
It has never been a more exciting time to join WSP’s market‑leading Infrastructure Planning Team. Our success is built on employing highly skilled consenting specialists who have experience serving a diverse portfolio of clients in the energy, renewables, nuclear, net zero, water, rail, transport, and aviation sectors. We work at all stages of the consenting process from early feasibility, application preparation, and delivery of consents through construction on a variety of projects across sectors.
To continue to sustainably grow as a business, we are looking for an experienced Senior Consultant to join our team to support town planning and consenting inputs on major and nationally significant infrastructure projects. The successful candidates will have demonstrable experience of working within multi‑disciplinary teams to secure consent and approvals for major or nationally significant infrastructure projects via the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, Planning Act 2008, and Transport and Works Act Order.
What We Will Be Looking For You To Demonstrate:
- Lead preparation of Town & Country Planning Act applications for infrastructure projects across the UK.
- Support and lead on aspects of consenting inputs on major infrastructure projects (DCOs, DNSs, TWAOs etc.)
- Provide sound technical advice to clients and support managing their consenting requirements, demonstrating awareness of client’s expectations and needs.
- Work and liaise with statutory bodies and stakeholders on behalf of clients to help deliver projects.
- Lead and engage with teams across a variety of disciplines, providing technical oversight.
- Understand project and team roles and actively support and contribute to achievement, building positive relationships within the team.
- Proactively engage with developing own knowledge and skills to build ability and team’s internal knowledge base.
- Support work winning opportunities in line with WSP’s Growth Strategy, contributing to identifying opportunities and proposals.
- Be aware of project finances and demonstrate project management experience, ideally within a consultancy environment.
- Hold a degree‑level qualification in town planning (or equivalent).
- Be a member of (or eligible for) the RTPI.
Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Join our close‑knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world. With us, you can. Apply today.
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level. Employment type: Full‑time. Job function: Other. Industries: Professional Services.
Principal Planner (Infrastructure Planning) in Leeds employer: Wsp In The Uk & Ireland
Contact Detail:
Wsp In The Uk & Ireland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planner (Infrastructure Planning) in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at WSP on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching WSP’s recent projects and achievements. Knowing their work will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in joining their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to infrastructure planning. Think about how your experience aligns with the role and be ready to share specific examples of your past successes.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about wanting to join WSP.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planner (Infrastructure Planning) in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Planner role. Highlight your experience with the Town and Country Planning Act and any major infrastructure projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with what we do at WSP!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about infrastructure planning and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention specific projects or experiences that relate to the role.
Showcase Your Teamwork Skills: Since we work in multi-disciplinary teams, it's important to showcase your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others to secure consents or manage projects. We love seeing candidates who can build positive relationships!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the position there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wsp In The Uk & Ireland
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Town and Country Planning Act, Planning Act, and any relevant legislation. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically in your role.
✨Showcase Your Project Experience
Prepare specific examples of major infrastructure projects you've worked on. Highlight your role in securing consents and approvals, and be ready to discuss the challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
WSP values strong community engagement, so be prepared to talk about how you've liaised with statutory bodies and stakeholders in past projects. Share examples of how you built relationships and navigated complex stakeholder environments to achieve project goals.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
Since this role involves working within multi-disciplinary teams, think of instances where you’ve successfully collaborated with others. Discuss how you contributed to team dynamics and supported colleagues, as this will highlight your ability to work effectively in a team setting.