Principal Planner

Our client has a requirement for a Planner / Specialist to join their Planning Service on an initial 3-month contract basis in Cambridge, with the potential for extension or permanent opportunities for the right candidate.

Role Purpose

To support the delivery of high-quality planning services across a range of planning disciplines, contributing to sustainable development, placemaking and growth initiatives. The successful candidate will manage planning applications, provide professional planning advice, engage with stakeholders, and help deliver planning projects and strategic objectives.

Opportunities are available across Development Management, Strategic Sites, Planning Policy, Built & Natural Environment, Heritage, Urban Design, Ecology, Environmental Sustainability and Planning Enforcement.

Job Role Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of planning applications, appeals and planning-related projects.
• Assess development proposals against planning legislation, policy and guidance.
• Prepare professional reports, recommendations, presentations and briefings.
• Undertake site visits and technical assessments as required.
• Provide planning advice to applicants, developers, residents and stakeholders.
• Negotiate positive planning outcomes and support sustainable development objectives.
• Support the preparation and implementation of planning policies, strategies and guidance documents.
• Investigate planning enforcement matters and support appropriate resolutions.
• Represent the Planning Service at committee meetings, stakeholder events and public consultations.
• Work collaboratively with internal departments, local authorities and external partners.
• Support service improvement initiatives and performance objectives.
• Mentor and support junior colleagues where appropriate.

For more senior appointments, responsibilities may also include:

• Managing complex planning applications and strategic development projects.
• Leading stakeholder engagement and negotiations.
• Providing technical guidance and mentoring to team members.
• Presenting evidence at planning appeals, hearings and inquiries.
• Supporting team management and project delivery.

Experience / Skills / Knowledge / Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent qualification in Town Planning or a related discipline.
• Knowledge and understanding of planning legislation, policy and development management processes.
• Experience dealing with planning applications and planning-related matters.
• Strong report writing and analytical skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to build effective relationships with customers, developers and stakeholders.
• Strong organisational and time management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Ability to negotiate effectively and achieve positive outcomes.
• Flexible, proactive and customer-focused approach.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Experience within a Local Authority planning environment is desirable.
• MRTPI qualification or working towards professional accreditation would be advantageous.
• Full UK driving licence and ability to undertake site visits when required.

Company Information

At First Recruitment Group, we understand just how important it is to secure the right people. That is why our Recruitment Consultants always take the time to understand requirements in detail and offer sound advice to both clients and candidates.

We actively recruit at all levels, and this is a superb opportunity for a Planner / Specialist looking for a new challenge. If you are interested in this position, please apply today for more information.