Assistant planning volunteer; Information gatherer

At a local level, we require someone who can scan the local newspapers or council’s planning portal and see what new planning applications have been submitted and the stage that older ones have reached (e.g. any revisions, new information or appeals). You can then inform your district team leader of any necessary details.

Keeping up to date with planning proposals is one of the most important functions within the organisation.

Time required:
An hour or so each week.

Skills required:

No special skills are required – just an interest in development in your area. You will be someone who enjoys scanning newspapers and the web and presenting information to others in whichever form best suits you.

If you would like to discuss this role, please feel free to contact David Mairs at .

More about this role

Assistant planning volunteer

Planning Trustee

Community

By volunteering with us you’ll be helping to find positive solutions for the issues facing the countryside and the environment. By applying your skills and experience you can make a real difference and be a central part of a friendly and passionate charity.

As a planning support volunteer, you’ll be helping us to investigate planning applications so we can influence their outcome for the benefit of the countryside.

We’re ideally looking for volunteers with an interest in the planning system and environmental and countryside issues. Please look at our other opportunities too to find one that’s just right for you.

• Investigating planning applications with an impact on the countryside, for example by viewing proposals online or at the local planning offices
• Occasionally visiting proposed development sites to look at plans and record details
• Providing your CPRE group with relevant local and site information, sharing information with other volunteers and attending meetings where relevant
• Liaising with parish and district councils and other conservation bodies
• Liaising with national CPRE teams to contribute to consultations and policy development

• An interest in the countryside and environmental issues
• Previous experience in the planning sector and knowledge of the planning system is desirable but not essential
• An eye for detail and an interest in investigative work
• A willingness to visit the local planning office and proposed development sites
• Happy carrying out tasks independently and as part of a team
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Access to a computer and the internet at home and be comfortable using them
• Be able to commit to volunteering regularly to suit your availability with occasional attendance at meetings

• Use your skills and experience to contribute to the success of our charity and make a positive difference to the countryside
• Meet like-minded people and enjoy being part of a team
• Enhance your CV by developing new skills and gaining valuable experience
• We’ll support you to develop in your volunteering role and provide you with relevant training
• We’ll give you a reference for your future work or volunteering
• The opportunity to attend a volunteer induction day at CPRE’s national office in London or a regional centre
• We provide out-of-pocket travel expenses