Local Plan Interim Lead

Bournemouth, United Kingdom | Posted on 13/07/2026

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• The Council is seeking an experienced Interim Lead for the Dorset Local Plan to provide strategic leadership and drive the development and delivery of a new Local Plan under the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). This role is crucial in shaping the future of Dorset's planning landscape, including the creation of a new Design Guide. Reporting jointly to the Corporate Director for Planning and the Executive Director for Economy and Environment, the successful candidate will oversee the Spatial Planning Service and lead approximately 50 employees.
  
  The role ensures that the Council's planning resources are effectively aligned to achieve the successful production and adoption of the Local Plan.

• Lead and oversee the delivery of Dorset's new Local Plan and Design Guide.
• Establish and implement a clear critical path programme and robust project management framework for Local Plan delivery.
• Drive measurable progress against key milestones and statutory planning requirements.
• Provide strategic leadership to the Service Manager for Spatial Planning and associated teams.
• Ensure planning resources are effectively deployed to support Local Plan objectives.
• Work closely with the Corporate Director for Planning, Executive Director for Economy and Environment, and other senior leaders.
• Build productive relationships with Cabinet Members, elected members, committees, and external stakeholders.
• Provide expert advice and guidance on strategic planning matters.
• Influence and engage senior officers, statutory consultees, and partner organisations on complex planning and transport issues.

• Significant senior-level experience within Strategic Planning.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering and securing adoption of Local Plans.
• Extensive experience leading major planning programmes and complex strategic planning projects.
• Experience influencing, advising, and guiding senior officers, elected members, and statutory stakeholders.
• Demonstrable experience managing large multidisciplinary teams and delivering outcomes through others.

• Degree-level qualification in Town Planning, Spatial Planning, Geography, Urban Planning, or a related discipline.
• Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) or equivalent professional body is highly desirable.

• Contract duration: 6 months with potential for extension.
• Must be able to attend site in Dorchester/Dorset 3 to 4 days a week.
• Bi-weekly work schedule.
• The role closes on 24th July 2026, apply ASAP.