Town Planner

Town Planner – United Utilities

Hybrid (Office base: Lingley Mere, Warrington)

At United Utilities, our purpose is simple but powerful: to deliver great water for a stronger, greener and healthier North West. As a FTSE 100 organisation, we’re investing in people, innovation and sustainable growth because the work we do matters to every home, business and community across the region.

We’re proud of the culture we’ve built. One that champions diversity, inclusion and continuous learning, and gives our people the space to grow, excel and truly be themselves. Join us and you’ll be part of a collaborative, forward‑thinking organisation where your expertise has real impact.

We’re looking for an experienced Town Planner to provide expert planning advice across United Utilities. This is a unique role at the intersection of planning, infrastructure, environmental protection and regional development supporting one of the North West’s largest landowners and essential service providers.

You’ll lead on planning matters that affect a major water and wastewater company, from responding to third‑party planning applications to shaping long‑term development policy across the region. You’ll influence major infrastructure proposals, support sustainable growth, and help ensure our assets, customers and environment are protected. If you’re a commercially minded Town Planner who thrives on complex challenges and meaningful collaboration, this is your chance to make a real difference.

• Acting as UU’s subject matter expert on town planning, leading engagement with local planning authorities.
• Managing escalated planning matters, including major regional developments and nationally significant infrastructure projects.
• Reviewing emerging development plans and preparing specialist representations to influence sustainable growth.
• Leading negotiations with planning authorities, developers and key stakeholders.
• Supporting Examinations in Public where required.
• Working closely with internal teams including Developer Services, Engineering, Property and Legal to assess the impact of development and inform investment decisions.
• Maintaining an accurate database of planning proposals across the Northwest region.
• Building strong relationships with planning officers and environmental bodies such as the Environment Agency and Natural England.
• Delivering briefings and training on planning matters to colleagues across the business.
• Providing expert town planning advice for surplus land and new accommodation.
• Managing external consultants where required.

• A degree in Town Planning and membership of RTPI or RICS or equivalent experience.
• Strong knowledge of planning legislation, policy and processes.
• Understanding of the statutory obligations of a water and wastewater company, including the Water Industry Act.
• Experience in planning or development roles, ideally with exposure to water industry considerations (e.g., drainage, groundwater, odour, asset protection).
• Excellent negotiation, communication and stakeholder‑management skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage a varied, fast‑paced workload.
• Commercial awareness and a customer‑focused approach.
• A strong understanding of political and economic influences on planning.
• Full UK driving licence and flexibility to work occasional non‑standard hours.

You’ll be part of a respected, purpose‑driven organisation with a clear commitment to sustainability, innovation and community impact. As a valued member of our team, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package and the opportunity to shape development across the North West helping us protect the environment, support growth and deliver great water for generations to come.

Associate

Full‑time

Other

Utilities