Senior Planning Officer (Development Management)

Why Us?

Our Planning Service is making significant strides, driven by a commitment to excellence and innovation. Following a series of well-deserved promotions and a renewed focus on investing in our team's development, we are proud to say that our service is stronger and more capable than ever. 

As we continue to enhance our skill set and expand our professional team, we are eager to build on this progress by securing the services of more excellent, hard-working, and committed professionals. Together, we remain dedicated to delivering outstanding service to the community, ensuring that West Lancashire remains a place where sustainable growth and heritage preservation go hand in hand—and we are hiring!  

Your role
 As the Senior Planning Officer, you will:

• Support and Collaborate: Assist the Development Control Manager and Principal Planning Officers in providing an efficient and effective Development Management service. Work collaboratively with colleagues, providing support and mentorship to more junior Planning Officers.
• Planning Applications: Appraise, process, and make recommendations on a variety of planning applications, including major and complex applications. Assist in pre-application enquiries, offering expert advice on planning matters.
• Enforcement: Assist the Principal Planning Officers in enforcing planning control when required, ensuring compliance with planning regulations.
• Represent the Council: Prepare and present the Council’s case at planning appeals, including acting as an expert witness when needed. Attend meetings and liaise with key stakeholders, including Elected Members, developers, businesses, and the public.
• Strategic Involvement: Contribute to the Council's planning projects and the progression of the Local Plan, ensuring that developments align with the broader strategic goals of the Council.

Why West Lancashire?

• Exceptional Environment: Enjoy the tranquility of picturesque countryside alongside the vibrancy of bustling towns and communities.
• Fantastic Team: Join a dedicated and supportive group of professionals passionate about making a difference.
• Professional Growth: We are committed to your development, offering extensive training and career advancement opportunities.
• Innovation and Collaboration: Be part of a team that embraces new ideas and approaches, always striving for excellence.
• Community Impact: Help shape a sustainable future while preserving the rich heritage and natural beauty of West Lancashire

About You!

• Experience: Significant experience in planning, with a track record in development management.
• Education: A degree in Town Planning or a related field. Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) is desirable.
• Skills: Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Ability to think strategically and innovate.
• Passion: A commitment to sustainable development and community engagement.

What's in it for you?

• We pride ourselves on our friendliness and being a good employer with a range of benefits and employment terms and conditions to suit you. A competitive salary and annual leave entitlement, flexible working, a generous employer pension contribution scheme, work life balance policies, and support for your personal development are just some of the benefits we offer.

To find out more about West Lancashire Borough Council, Please follow the link to access our Recruitment Pack and view the attached Role Profile below.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone passionate about town planning to make a meaningful contribution to the community by ensuring the effective management and control of development within the borough.   If you're ready to join our exceptional team and help shape the future of West Lancashire, we’d love to hear from you! 

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Kate Jones on 01695 585169.

Related Documents

• Role Profile and Person Specification