Tree Officer; Planning

Help shape and protect the future of our borough's trees

Trees and woodlands are a defining feature of Basingstoke and Deane, contributing to the character of our communities, supporting biodiversity and helping us deliver our Climate Change and Ecological Emergency commitments.

We are looking for an experienced and enthusiastic arboricultural professional to join our Environment Team as a Tree Officer (Planning). This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in protecting and enhancing the borough's tree stock while influencing how future development takes place.

As part of our professional and supportive Tree Team, you will help ensure that trees are properly considered throughout the planning process, balancing the needs of growth and development with the protection of our natural environment.

This varied role combines technical arboricultural expertise with planning and environmental stewardship. You will:

• Assess and determine Tree Preservation Order (TPO) applications and notifications relating to trees within Conservation Areas.
• Provide specialist arboricultural advice on planning applications and development proposals.
• Undertake site visits across the borough to assess trees and their contribution to the landscape.
• Work closely with planning officers, developers, residents and other stakeholders.
• Help shape sustainable development by ensuring trees are appropriately protected and incorporated into new schemes.

No two days are the same, and you will have the opportunity to work on a diverse range of cases, from individual protected trees to major development proposals.

We are looking for someone with proven arboricultural knowledge and experience, ideally gained within a local authority, consultancy or similar professional environment.

• A recognised arboricultural qualification.
• A good understanding of arboriculture, tree legislation and planning processes.
• The ability to assess tree-related issues and make sound professional judgements.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• The ability to work independently while contributing positively to a collaborative team environment.

Whether you are an experienced Tree Officer or an arboricultural professional looking to move into a planning-focused role, we would love to hear from you.

This is your opportunity to make a real difference to the local environment while developing your career within a supportive and forward-thinking council.