Principal Enforcement Officer - Planning Enforcement

Principal Enforcement Officer - Planning Enforcement

South East England | Hybrid (2 days site visits) | 6-Month Rolling Contract | Inside IR35

We are currently working with a Local Authority in the South East of England seeking an experienced Principal Enforcement Officer to support their Planning Enforcement function on an interim basis. This is a key role within the team, requiring an individual who can independently manage a complex caseload, provide senior‑level expertise, and drive enforcement outcomes across a varied portfolio of cases.

• Lead and manage a caseload of complex planning enforcement cases, including high‑profile and sensitive matters
• Investigate alleged breaches of planning control, including site inspections (2 days per week)
• Prepare and serve enforcement notices, breach of condition notices, stop notices, and related legal documentation
• Provide professional advice on planning enforcement legislation, policy, and procedures
• Manage cases through to resolution, including appeals, prosecutions, and court proceedings where required
• Engage with stakeholders including residents, developers, legal teams, and elected members
• Support the wider service with process improvements and mentoring junior staff where appropriate

• Significant experience within Planning Enforcement, ideally at Senior or Principal level
• Proven track record of managing complex and contentious enforcement cases within a Local Authority setting
• Strong working knowledge of UK planning legislation, enforcement powers, and appeals processes
• Experience preparing robust reports and legal documentation
• Ability to work autonomously while managing competing priorities
• Confident communicator with strong stakeholder management skills

• £50-£55 per hour (Inside IR35)
• 6-month rolling contract
• Hybrid working: 2 days per week on-site for inspections, remainder remote
• Immediate / short notice start preferred