Planning Officer

Woolwich, United Kingdom | Posted on 14/07/2026

At Civic Recruitment and Limited, we know that individuals are more than just fixed expenses; they are the cornerstone of every thriving organisation. That’s why we are passionate about transforming recruitment in the public and private sectors. In the modern job market, organisations in both public and private sectors face significant workforce challenges. Public sector entities, such as local councils and central government departments, often struggle with lengthy recruitment processes, limited access to qualified candidates, and stringent budgetary and regulatory constraints.

Private sector businesses, on the other hand, encounter high turnover rates, difficulties managing a mix of permanent and temporary staff, and challenges in sourcing specialised talent for niche industries. These sector‑specific obstacles, coupled with the universal complexities of payroll management, create a pressing need for efficient workforce solutions. Civic Recruitment Limited addresses these challenges with innovative recruitment and payroll solutions tailored for diverse organisational needs.

Recognising the critical hurdles organisations face, the company leverages its expertise to streamline processes, reduce recruitment times, and alleviate administrative burdens. With an extensive database of over 1 million pre‑screened candidates, Civic Recruitment Limited is well‑positioned to cater to the specific needs of both public and private sectors.

6 months contract with a Local Authority

Job Title:
Planning Officer

The Principal Planning Officer is responsible for managing an varied and complex caseload of planning applications, providing professional planning advice, and supporting the delivery of high-quality development management services within the Royal Borough of Greenwich. The post holder will lead on the assessment and determination of complex planning applications, represent the Council at planning appeals and public inquiries, provide pre‑application advice, supervise junior officers, and contribute to the achievement of the Council's planning, regeneration, and growth objectives.

The role requires a detailed understanding of planning legislation, policy, and development management processes to ensure sound and defensible planning decisions are made in the public interest.

• Manageand determine a complex caseload of planning applications, including majorand sensitive developments.
• Leadthe assessment, evaluation, and negotiation of planning proposals in accordance with national, regional, and local planning policies.
• Undertake site inspections, consultations, stakeholder engagement, and negotiations to support planning recommendations.
• Prepare high-quality planning reports, legal documents, and committee reports.
• Provide expert planning advice to applicants, developers, consultants, councillors, and members of the public.
• Deliverpre-application advice and guidance in accordance with planning legislation and Council policies.
• Ensure decisions are legally compliant, robust, and defensible.

• Leadon planning appeals, including written representations, hearings, and Public Inquiries.
• Represent the Council before the Planning Inspectorate and other relevant bodies.
• Prepare appeal statements and evidence within statutory deadlines.
• Assist with planning enforcement matters, including enforcement notices, appeals, and prosecution cases where required.
• Interpret and apply planning legislation, case law, and policy guidance to complex development proposals.

• Supervise,mentor, and support junior planning officers, graduate planners, and trainees.
• Pro…