Principal Planning Officer
We have an ambitious development agenda and are looking to expand our Development Management team to help deliver it.
Folkestone & Hythe is a dynamic and innovative place to live, work and visit. Recognised by Best Companies as an outstanding organisation to work for, we have a real focus on health & wellbeing and staff development, and offer an excellent benefits package that includes corporate membership and reward schemes, Employee Assistance Programme and access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
Based in our offices in the heart of Folkestone, (ranked in the Sunday Times as one of the best places to live in the UK, and in Lonely Planet as one of the best places to visit in the world!) you’ll have easy access to transport links, the seafront and harbour, Folkestone’s town centre and the creative quarter in the old town. To the west of Folkestone is the historic market town of Hythe, in north of the district is the rolling countryside of the Kent Downs AONB, and to the south is the open expanse of Romney Marsh.
In addition, we have a hybrid and agile working culture that supports and encourages flexible and remote/home working.
Our mission is to create a world class environment that will stand the test of time whether relating to a householder extension or one of the Council’s own exciting and ambitious projects that are in the pipeline such as the proposed garden town at Otterpool Park and the regeneration plans for the Town Centre. We are looking for an energetic, skilled and creative planner with drive to improve and to help shape the area.
The role will suit experienced planners who are commercially minded and are place-making focussed. You will have a track record of successfully delivering high quality, sustainable development. You will also possess outstanding technical knowledge and have excellent communication skills. A passion for good urban design will also be important as we continue our drive to secure great design.
We are looking for talented individuals with public or private sector experience of dealing with a wide range of planning and related applications, including major applications. You will also have experience of appearing at public inquiries and/or informal hearings and presenting applications to Planning Committee. If you are an experienced planner who is commercially minded, place-making focussed, and have a track record of successfully leading major projects through the planning system, delivering high quality, sustainable development then we want to hear from you.
In return, we can offer you a chance to thrive, develop and make a lasting impact on Folkestone and its surrounding areas. The role is permanent, has a competitive salary, and there will be opportunities for further training and development. The role also includes re-imbursement of professional membership fees and a car allowance of £3,900 per annum.
Applications will be considered as they are submitted. The vacancy may be closed prior to the listed closing date if suitable applications are received.
For an informal discussion please contact Rob Bailey, Development & Enforcement Manager, via rob.bailey@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk or Llywelyn Lloyd, Chief Planning Officer, via llywelyn.lloyd@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk