Principal Development Management Officer – Fixed term till 31st 2028

• Full Time
• Lyndhurst, Hampshire
• Posted 3 days ago
• 53179 - 56546 £ / Year
• Closes: 30 August 2026

Website New Forest District Council A place for you

Principal Development Management Officer – Fixed term till 31st March 2028

Shape Major Developments. Influence Communities. Lead on Complex Planning Decisions.

The New Forest is a truly special place – home to vibrant communities, thriving businesses, internationally important landscapes and unique environmental designations. As we continue to shape the future of our district, we are looking for an experienced and inspirational planning professional to join us as a Principal Development Management Officer.

Are you an experienced planning professional looking for your next challenge?

We are seeking an exceptional Principal Development Management Officer to play a leading role in delivering some of the most significant and high-profile development proposals in the district. This is an outstanding opportunity for an ambitious planner to work on complex schemes that will shape places, support sustainable growth, and leave a lasting legacy.

As a key member of our Development Management team, you will take responsibility for a portfolio of major, strategic and sensitive planning applications, providing expert professional advice and helping to drive high-quality development outcomes. You will work closely with elected members, developers, stakeholders and communities, representing the Council at the highest level.

• Managing a caseload of major and strategically important planning applications.
• Leading on complex pre-application discussions and development proposals.
• Exercising delegated authority on planning matters and routine enforcement cases.
• Preparing and presenting reports to Planning Committee.
• Representing the Council at inquiries, hearings, tribunals and public meetings.
• Providing professional guidance and support to colleagues.
• Contributing to the ongoing development, performance and success of the Development Management Service.
• Handling the financial and project management aspects of major developments, including Planning Performance Agreements and significant Section 106 contributions.

You’ll be an experienced planning professional with the confidence and expertise to manage challenging and often politically sensitive cases.

• Degree or postgraduate qualification in Town Planning.
• Eligibility for membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
• Substantial Development Management experience, including experience at a senior level.
• Detailed knowledge of planning legislation, policy and Development Management practice.
• Excellent report-writing and presentation skills. Strong project management, ICT and analytical abilities.
• The ability to make sound professional judgements on complex planning issues.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

• Management qualification.
• Experience of mentoring or supporting other planning officers.

This is an opportunity to work on projects that genuinely matter. You’ll be involved in major development proposals from inception to determination, helping to shape the future of our communities while working alongside a supportive and highly professional team. The Council is embarking on a process of transformation and this is an opportunity to bring your fresh perspective to our well-established and friendly team of professionals.

• £53,179 – £56,546 per annum (Up to £58,748 for exceptional performance once in post) (Pay award pending)
• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays (plus an additional 5 days for 5 years local authority continuous service).
• Hybrid Working with flexibility across our sites, and home working
• A Cycle to Work scheme which could save you around 40 percent on cycles and accessories
• Local Government Pension Scheme and AVC provision
• Employee Assistance Programme (free 24 hour legal, financial and personal advice for employees).
• Wide range of employee discounts at high street retailers, including supermarkets, stores and restaurants
• A values‑led organisation, guided by our LEAF values (Learning, Empathy,…