Senior Planning Policy Officer

Hybrid Working – 2 Days Office-Based / 3 Days Remote
£21.67 PAYE per hour
37 Hours Per Week
Initial 3-Month Contract with Potential Extension

We are seeking an experienced Senior Planning Policy Officer to support the delivery of a major Local Plan and its supporting evidence base. This is an excellent opportunity for a planning professional with strong policy experience to contribute to shaping future growth, infrastructure, and sustainable development across a large and evolving area.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of the Local Plan and associated evidence base.
• Review Strategic Land Availability Assessment submissions and undertake site assessments.
• Complete site selection proformas and evaluate development suitability.
• Assess infrastructure capacity, constraints, and development impacts.
• Analyse responses from infrastructure providers and stakeholders.
• Contribute to the preparation of the Infrastructure Delivery Plan.
• Support policy development relating to neighbourhood and local centres.
• Assist with drafting planning policy documents and evidence reports.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, stakeholders, elected members, and external organisations.

Essential Requirements

• Degree qualification in Town Planning or a related discipline.
• Strong knowledge of planning policy, planning legislation, and national planning guidance.
• Experience of Local Plan preparation and policy development.
• Experience undertaking site assessments and evidence-based planning work.
• Excellent analytical, report-writing, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and work to demanding deadlines.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills.
• RTPI membership or working towards professional accreditation is desirable.

Desirable Experience

• Strategic Land Availability Assessments (SLAA/SHELAA).
• Site selection methodologies and assessments.
• Infrastructure Delivery Planning.
• Participation in Local Plan examinations, inquiries, or committee meetings.
• Working within a local authority planning policy environment.

This role offers a mix of office and remote working and would suit a planning professional looking to make a significant contribution to a high-profile Local Plan programme