Senior Planning Officer

• Senior_Planning_Officer_JD_Grade_6
• Senior_Planning_Officer_PS_Grade_6_

We only accept online applications. If you require access to a computer and/or the internet, you can use our facilities free of charge at The Amelia Scott. Please call ahead to book an appointment Tel. 01892 554171.

Please follow the link below to submit your application.

Equal Opportunities

Tunbridge Wells – Working for Equality. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Safeguarding

The Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expects all employee and volunteers to share this commitment.

Are you ready to take the next step in your planning career? We're looking for a highly motivated and experienced Senior Planning Officer to join our Development Management team.

About the Role

As a Senior Planning Officer, you’ll manage a varied and challenging caseload with minimal supervision. You’ll be responsible for assessing and determining planning applications and appeals, engaging in pre-application discussions, and contributing to enforcement actions. You’ll also represent the Council at Planning Committees, public inquiries, and hearings, ensuring high-quality outcomes that align with our strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess planning proposals and prepare detailed reports and recommendations.
• Conduct site visits and manage applications under delegated powers or via Planning Committee.
• Lead pre-application discussions and provide clear, timely advice.
• Present reports to Members’ Working Parties, Committees, and external organisations.
• Liaise with internal departments, external bodies, and the public to ensure compliance and collaboration.
• Investigate breaches of planning control and contribute to enforcement actions.
• Prepare and present appeal statements and act as professional witness at hearings and inquiries.
• Support the Head of Planning Services in delivering a responsive, customer-focused service.
• Respond to Freedom of Information and Environmental Information Regulations requests.

What We’re Looking For

• At least two years’ experience in Development Management or planning policy.
• Proven ability to handle complex planning proposals and appeals.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and organisational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, including report writing and public presentations.
• In-depth knowledge of planning legislation and guidance.
• Eligible for membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
• Proficient in IT systems including Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• A proactive, team-oriented attitude with the ability to work independently and meet deadlines under pressure.

What you’ll get:

• 26 days’ holiday (rising to 29 with 5 years' continuous Local Government service) and 3 additional days in December.
• Generous Local Government Pension Scheme - employer contribution of 19.7%
• Annual membership fees refunded for your professional body.
• Hybrid working to support work/life balance.
• Free parking near the Town Hall.
• Free tea, coffee and wellbeing perks like an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), flu jabs, eyecare vouchers and more.

Ready to apply?

Apply now and take the next step in your planning career. If you’d like to talk through the role, contact Richard Hazelgrove, Development Management Team Leader at Richard.Hazelgrove@Tunbridgewells.gov.uk or on 01892 554054.

Advert Closing date: 28 September midnight

Interviews: TBC