At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning applications for major infrastructure projects and provide technical advice to clients.
- Company: Award-winning consultancy with a strong community engagement focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities to work on impactful projects.
- Other info: Equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team shaping the future of infrastructure and make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Degree in town planning and experience in multidisciplinary teams.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
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.
Our Infrastructure Planning Team employs highly skilled consenting specialists with experience in 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 on a variety of projects across sectors.
We are looking for an experienced Senior Consultant to support town planning and consenting on major and nationally significant infrastructure projects. Successful candidates will have demonstrable experience working within multidisciplinary 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. Experience with the Planning (Wales) Act 2015, Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act or the Electricity Act is also desirable.
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 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 clients' 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 the 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.
WSP is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.
Principal Planner Town Planning (Infrastructure Planning) in Manchester employer: WSP
WSP is an exceptional employer, renowned for its commitment to professional development and a collaborative work culture that fosters innovation in town planning. With a focus on major infrastructure projects across the UK, employees benefit from engaging in meaningful work that contributes to sustainable development while enjoying opportunities for growth and advancement within a supportive team environment. The company's recognition as RTPI's Planning Consultancy of the Year highlights its dedication to excellence and community engagement, making it an attractive place for passionate professionals in the field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planner Town Planning (Infrastructure Planning) in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with professionals in the town planning and infrastructure sectors. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching WSP and their projects. Familiarise yourself with their recent achievements, especially in infrastructure planning. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your genuine interest in the company and its work.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Principal Planner. Highlight your skills in managing multidisciplinary teams and securing consents for major projects. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. So, get that application in and let’s make great things happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planner Town Planning (Infrastructure Planning) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Principal Planner role. Highlight your experience with the Town and Country Planning Act and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Teamwork Skills:Since we work in multidisciplinary teams, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've engaged with different stakeholders or led teams on major infrastructure projects. This will show us you're a great fit for our culture!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and experience.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! This ensures that your application gets to the right people quickly. Plus, it’s the best way to stay updated on your application status. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at WSP
✨Know Your Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the Town and Country Planning Act, Planning Act 2008, and any other relevant legislation. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically in your role.
✨Showcase Your Multidisciplinary Experience
WSP values teamwork across various disciplines. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with different teams on major infrastructure projects. Highlight your role in securing consents and approvals, as this will resonate well with what they’re looking for.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your ability to liaise with statutory bodies and stakeholders. Think of specific instances where you’ve managed client expectations or navigated complex stakeholder relationships. This will illustrate your communication skills and understanding of project dynamics.
✨Be Proactive About Learning
WSP appreciates candidates who are keen on developing their knowledge and skills. Share how you’ve taken initiative in your professional development, whether through courses, certifications, or self-study. This shows that you’re committed to growth and can contribute to the team’s knowledge base.
