Principal Planner - Spatial Data & Infrastructure

We are seeking a Principal Planner Spatial Data & Infrastructure to join the team at level A. This is the entry point of the role, so you will need to be able to demonstrate the relevant knowledge, experience and skills to get you started, but you will be supported to develop in your role through induction, probation and a supportive Performance Appraisal and Career Conversation. All elements of level A listed within the person specification are essential. Through your induction you will be introduced to the Career Progression Framework (CPF), which will help you to identify your areas of strength and any development needs.

Medway Council is looking for a Principal Planner to work in the Policy team of the Planning Service. The Council is preparing to submit its new Local Plan for examination. This sets out a strategy for Medway’s growth up to the early 2040s, with opportunities for urban regeneration, and strategic development in suburban and rural areas. You will be involved in a range of planning policy projects, including the examination of the new local plan, planning for strategic development sites, and play a key role in the management and development of the Planning Policy team.

The main purpose of the job is to:

• To lead, manage and develop the Council’s strategic infrastructure planning activities, and land use data collation and monitoring systems to inform development planning processes
• Play a leading technical and managerial role in the preparation and review of planning policy, specifically the Medway Local Plan, but this could also include supplementary policy and guidance documents.
• Manage a team of Planning and development monitoring officers and their contribution to the work of the Planning Service, with particular reference to infrastructure, spatial data and analysis.
• Lead and manage planning policy and information projects, including internal research and analysis to inform policy development, and to commission and manage contracts with external consultants.
• Provide specialist technical planning policy advice, including representing the Planning Service in corporate and external stakeholder projects and meetings.
• Secure effective engagement with members, local communities, and wider stakeholders in the plan making process to promote a clear understanding of development policy requirements and aims in Medway, and in a way that promotes the vision and values of the Council.

Interviews are due to take place on the 21 November 2025

If you would like to have an informal discussion with the recruiting manager, please e-mail Catherine Smith on catherine.smith@medway.gov.uk

Career Progression Frameworks (CPF) have been introduced for all roles at Medway Council. These frameworks provide a mechanism for employees to take ownership of their development within their post and be rewarded accordingly. This means that the salary you will be offered will be at level A unless, based on an assessment against the CPF criteria, you demonstrate that you are meeting the criteria of level B or C. There will be further opportunity once in post to progress from level A to B, and B to C.

When writing your application, it is important to ensure you identify your suitability against the requirements of the job profile, as this information will be used for shortlisting and may contribute to the CPF assessment. Your application may be rejected if the minimum required criteria is not met. Further information relating to the requirements for this role can be found in the CPF Guidance document attached.

The person specification of a job profile is split into three levels:

Level A details the essential criteria that all applicants must be able to demonstrate through their application and interview.

Level B details the developed competencies that an individual who is practised in this role would be able to demonstrate and will be a progression of knowledge, experience and skills from level A.

Level C requires the highest level of competence and applicants would need to fully meet and demonstrate all aspects of the job profile, including qualifications, knowledge, skills and experience.

Important Information-

Applicants must be able to demonstrate all essential requirements as listed in the job profile

For further information, and for details of the benefits of working for Medway Council, please refer to the Medway information pack available as a download or to view online.

Please be advised that if you are not contacted within 3 weeks of the advert closing date then you have not been shortlisted. All recruitment correspondence, including interview letters and contracts of employment will usually be sent out via email.

Please visit http://www.mindfulemployer.net/ for information on how Medway Council put good practices in place to ensure employees and job applicants who declare mental health issues receive the right level of support.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy at any time prior to the closing date.