Principal Planning Policy Officer

6 months contract with a Local Authority Pay Rate: £35.98 per hour Umbrella This role is paying up to £53 umbrella per hour depending on candidate experience Summary This is a 6-month contract position with a Local Authority, offering a pay rate of £35.98 per hour under an umbrella arrangement, with potential earnings up to £53 per hour based on experience.

The Principal Planning Policy Officer will spearhead the creation, execution, and evaluation of both statutory and non-statutory planning policies and strategies within the borough. The role involves providing expert planning advice and technical guidance to ensure that planning policies align with the borough's social, economic, and environmental goals.

Responsibilities

Oversee the preparation, implementation, review, and monitoring of key areas of the Council's Local Plan. Lead the development and management of Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs) and other planning guidance. Prepare and present planning policy evidence at public examinations, inquiries, hearings, and through written submissions.

Manage planning policy studies and projects, including drafting project briefs, hiring external consultants, overseeing project execution, and maintaining budget control. Conduct public consultation and engagement initiatives to support planning policy development. Establish and maintain effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate the Local Plan's implementation and development.

Requirements

Extensive professional experience in planning policy and local authority planning services. Proven track record in leading the preparation, development, implementation, and review of Local Plans. Experience in developing Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs) and other planning policy guidance. Skilled in preparing and presenting evidence at public examinations, inquiries, and planning hearings.

Essential Qualifications Strong professional knowledge and expertise in planning policy and development. Specialized understanding of statutory and non-statutory plan-making processes. Current knowledge of national planning legislation, policy, and best practices. Ability to interpret complex planning policy issues and provide authoritative professional advice.

Additional Information Working hours are 35 hours per week. The role offers hybrid working arrangements, requiring office attendance two days per week, including Mondays. Payments are made bi-weekly. The application deadline is approaching, so apply as soon as possible.