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: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on significant infrastructure projects and shape the future.
- 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 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Principal Planner (Infrastructure Planning) role at WSP. 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 disparate 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 that have experience in serving a diverse portfolio of clients in the energy, renewables, nuclear, net‑zero, water, rail, transportation, and aviation sectors. We work at all stages of the consenting process from early feasibility, application preparation, and delivery of consents through construction and 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).
- Providing sound technical advice to clients and support managing their consenting requirements, demonstrating awareness of client’s expectations and needs.
- Working and liaising 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.
- Understands project and team roles and actively supports and contributes to achievement, building positive relationships within the team.
- Proactively engages with developing own knowledge and skills to build ability and team’s internal knowledge base.
- Supports work winning opportunities in line with WSP’s Growth Strategy, contributing to identifying opportunities and to proposals.
- Awareness of project finances and demonstrates project management experience, ideally within a consultancy environment.
- Degree level qualification in town planning (or equivalent).
- 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 across the world. With us, you can. Apply today.
Principal Planner (Infrastructure Planning) in Basingstoke employer: WSP
Contact Detail:
WSP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planner (Infrastructure Planning) in Basingstoke
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the infrastructure planning field, especially those who work at WSP. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info on the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of the Town and Country Planning Act and other relevant legislation. We want to see that you’re not just familiar with the rules but can also apply them in real-world scenarios.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your teamwork skills! WSP values collaboration, so be ready to share examples of how you've successfully worked within multi-disciplinary teams to secure consents for major projects.
✨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 awesome team at WSP.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planner (Infrastructure Planning) in Basingstoke
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
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the Town and Country Planning Act, Planning Act 2008, and other relevant legislation. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with these laws and how you've successfully navigated them in past projects.
✨Showcase Your Teamwork Skills
WSP values collaboration across disciplines. Prepare examples of how you've worked within multi-disciplinary teams to secure consents for major infrastructure projects. Highlight your role in fostering positive relationships and achieving project goals.
✨Understand Client Needs
Demonstrate your ability to provide sound technical advice by discussing specific instances where you managed client expectations. Show that you understand the importance of aligning your work with client requirements and how this contributes to successful project outcomes.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Be prepared to talk about your experience liaising with statutory bodies and stakeholders. Share examples of how you've effectively communicated and built relationships to help deliver projects, as this is crucial for the role at WSP.