Principal Planning Officer

Greenwich, 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.

Job Purpose

To support the delivery of a high-quality planning service by managing a complex caseload of planning applications, providing professional planning advice, and ensuring applications are processed effectively in accordance with relevant legislation, policies, and best practice.

The postholder will be responsible for managing major and complex planning applications from pre‑application discussions through to determination and post‑decision stages. They will provide expert planning recommendations, lead on appeals, and work collaboratively with applicants, stakeholders, elected Members, and internal teams to deliver a customer‑focused planning service.

The role will contribute to the effective delivery of strategic planning objectives by ensuring high standards of professional planning advice, decision‑making, and customer service.

• Manage an individual caseload of planning applications, including major and complex developments, ensuring applications are progressed efficiently and effectively.
• Prepare high‑quality planning assessments, reports, and recommendations for delegated and committee decisions.
• Lead and manage planning applications through all stages, including pre‑application discussions, formal submissions, determination, and post‑decision processes.
• Provide professional planning advice to applicants, developers, colleagues, Members, and other stakeholders.
• Assess proposals against national planning policy, local development plans, planning guidance, and other relevant material considerations.
• Coordinate consultations and engage with internal and external stakeholders to support effective decision‑making.
• Negotiate with applicants and agents to achieve high‑quality development outcomes and resolve planning issues.
• Lead on planning appeals, including preparing evidence, coordinating responses, and representing the Council where required.
• Support the delivery of an efficient, customer‑focused planning service, ensuring applicants and stakeholders receive clear and timely advice.
• Identify opportunities for service improvements and contribute to the development of planning processes and procedures.
• Provide mentoring, guidance, and…