Principal Planner

Job Title: Principal Planning Officer

Our client, a local authority based in East London, is seeking a Principal Planning Officer to join their Development Management team. Reporting to the Area Manager, you will lead the team in managing major and complex planning applications and handling contentious development control issues. Your projects will contribute to the borough's regeneration and economic development.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Represent the Council by preparing and presenting evidence at public inquiries, informal hearings, and court proceedings.
2. Provide professional advice to Council members, senior officers, applicants, and the public on planning applications and development proposals.
3. Deputise for the Area Team Leader as required.
4. Assist in developing Planning Performance Agreements and offering pre-application advice on complex cases.

Candidate Requirements:

1. Degree-qualified town planner with recent experience in a local authority development management team.
2. Significant experience in strategic major development, handling high-profile applications pre-application and live cases.
3. Experience supervising junior staff and signing off delegated applications.
4. Ideally, London experience and a thorough understanding of current issues affecting planning, regeneration, and local government in London.

Contract Details:

This role is initially a 6-month contract, with potential for extension. The pay rate is up to £50 per hour (Umbrella), inside IR35.

Additional Information:

The team primarily works remotely, with occasional office visits or attendance at Committee meetings.

Closing date for applications: 15th May 2025.

Contact us for a copy of the Job Description.