Principal Planning Policy Officer

Principal Planning Policy Officer

Local Authority | South West London

A well‑established local authority based in South West London is seeking an experienced Principal Planning Policy Officer to support the delivery of key planning policy work within a busy Strategic Planning and Infrastructure function.

This is a senior, high‑impact role within a multidisciplinary planning service covering Planning Policy, Development Management and Infrastructure, with a strong focus on Local Plan delivery, policy development and stakeholder engagement.

• Contract Length: 9 months (ongoing assignment)
• Pay Rate: £55 per hour (Umbrella) - 36 hours per week
• Working Pattern:
  Hybrid - 1 to 2 days per week in the office, remainder remote
• Office
  
  Location:
  
  Town‑centre offices in South West London (High Street location)
• Closing Date: 20/02/2026 at 17:00

Reporting to a senior planning lead, the Principal Planning Policy Officer will be responsible for leading and delivering complex planning policy projects and work streams, supporting the preparation, review and monitoring of the Local Plan and associated planning policy documents.

The role requires close collaboration with internal services, elected members, external partners and local communities to ensure policy objectives align with corporate priorities and national planning guidance.

• Lead on the preparation, review and delivery of planning policy documents, including Local Plan work streams
• Manage and deliver complex policy projects and evidence base work
• Contribute to policy development, planning briefs, topic papers and supplementary guidance
• Provide high‑level professional planning advice on policy implications of development proposals
• Support public consultation and engagement exercises
• Represent the service at meetings, consultations and stakeholder forums
• Mentor and support junior planning officers where required
• Contribute to service planning, performance targets and continuous improvement initiatives

• Significant experience working within a local authority, council or housing association environment only
• Proven experience in Planning Policy at Senior or Principal level
• Strong knowledge of the UK planning system, policy preparation and Local Plan processes
• Ability to manage complex work streams and competing deadlines
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
• Eligible for or holding RTPI membership

• Experience supporting or participating in Examinations in Public
• Experience managing or mentoring other planning officers

📌 Apply early to avoid disappointment. Shortlisting may take place prior to the closing date.