Principal Planning Officer - Development Management

Northallerton, United Kingdom | Posted on 15/10/2026

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Local Authority | 2 Month Contract

Location: Northallerton

Rate: £50.00 per hour (Inside IR35)

Contract: 2 Month Contract

Hours: Full Time

Working Pattern: 1 Day Per Week Office-Based | Site Visits Required

We are offering an exciting opportunity for a seasoned Principal Planning Officer to join our dynamic Local Authority Development Management team. The role is ideal for professionals with a proven track record in overseeing multiple large-scale residential projects, each comprising 100+ units, as well as handling intricate planning applications and appeals. The successful candidate will manage a diverse portfolio of significant planning applications, provide expert leadership, mentor team members, and contribute to delivering a top-tier development management service.

This position requires office attendance one day a week and includes conducting site visits throughout the region.

• Oversee a portfolio of major and complex planning applications and related appeals.
• Lead initiatives on large-scale residential and strategic development sites.
• Offer expert planning advice to officers, councillors, applicants, agents, developers, and stakeholders.
• Manage major development proposals through the planning process.
• Draft comprehensive planning reports, recommendations, and committee documents.
• Present applications at Planning Committees.
• Conduct site inspections, meetings, and committee site visits.
• Negotiate planning obligations, including Section 106 Agreements and Community Infrastructure Levy contributions.
• Prepare appeal statements, proofs of evidence, and statements of common ground.
• Represent the Local Authority at Hearings, Public Inquiries, and related proceedings.
• Approve decisions prepared by other team members.
• Act as a deputy for Development Managers and Team Leaders when necessary.
• Mentor and support less experienced planning officers.
• Address complaints, inquiries, and Ombudsman investigations as needed.
• Contribute to service enhancements and performance target achievements.
• Assist with Freedom of Information requests and planning-related correspondence.

Requirements:

• Degree, Postgraduate Qualification, or Master's Degree in Planning or a related field.
• Extensive…