Principal Town Planner

Your new company Hays are delighted to be working with a well-established local authority on the South Coast to recruit an experienced Principal Development Management Planner on an interim basis.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a high-performing planning service at a time of significant growth and development. The authority is seeking an experienced planning professional capable of managing a varied caseload of major and complex applications while supporting the wider Development Management team. Your new role As a Principal Development Management Planner, you will play a key role in the delivery of an effective Development Management service, managing significant planning applications and providing expert planning advice to a range of stakeholders.

Key responsibilities will include:
Managing a caseload of major and complex planning applications. Leading negotiations with applicants, agents, developers and consultees. Preparing detailed officer reports and recommendations. Presenting applications and recommendations at Planning Committee. Providing professional advice on planning legislation, policy and development management matters. Attending virtual and in-person pre-application meetings and stakeholder consultations. Supporting junior members of the planning team where required. Contributing to the achievement of performance targets and service objectives.

What you'll need to succeed Degree qualification in Town Planning or a related discipline. Extensive Development Management experience within a local authority environment. Proven experience handling major and complex planning applications. Strong understanding of planning legislation and policy. Experience presenting reports at Planning Committee. Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills. Ability to work independently and effectively manage competing priorities.

What you'll get in return Competitive rate of £50-£60 per hour. Minimum 6-month contract with a strong possibility of extension. Highly flexible working arrangements with office attendance required just once per month. Opportunity to work on a diverse portfolio of major planning applications. Supportive and collaborative team environment. Immediate start available. What you need to do now Please contact Ben Styles in our Town Planning team for more information If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.

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