Senior Planning Officer – Midlands Councils – Hybrid / Remote Working

Published: about 3 hours ago

Senior Planning Officer – Midlands Councils – Hybrid / Remote Working

I am currently representing a number of Local Authorities across the Midlands who are offering initial temporary contracts for 6 months, with a strong potential for extension or permanent opportunities for the right candidate. Rates are negotiable depending on experience and location.

We are actively recruiting for Senior and Principal Planning Officers to join established planning teams in a range of councils throughout the East and West Midlands.

Locations:

Various councils across the Midlands, including but not limited to:

  • West Midlands (e.g. Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Coventry, Walsall)

  • East Midlands (e.g. Leicester, Nottingham, Derby, Lincolnshire)

  • Surrounding shire districts and boroughs

(Hybrid and remote working options available, depending on the council's policy)

Key Accountabilities:

  • Lead on a diverse caseload of planning applications, including major residential, commercial, regeneration, and mixed-use schemes.

  • Conduct effective negotiations with developers, consultants, and internal departments.

  • Draft and present reports for Planning Committees and oversee delegated decision-making.

  • Support junior officers and provide technical planning guidance to ensure consistent and robust decision-making.

  • Prepare appeal statements, represent the council as an expert witness at hearings and public inquiries.

  • Respond to planning enquiries from members, the public, and developers, applying knowledge of current legislation, local and national planning policy, and best practice.

Requirements:

  • Proven experience working within a Local Authority planning team.

  • Ability to manage a complex and varied caseload independently.

  • Strong policy knowledge, report writing, and stakeholder engagement skills.

  • Experience in handling major developments and planning appeals is highly desirable.

Contract Details:

  • Initial Term: 6 months

  • Extension / Permanent Potential: Yes

  • Rate: Competitive / Negotiable (Dependent on Experience)

  • Working Pattern: Hybrid / Remote (flexible by authority)

How to Apply:

If you're open to hearing more or ready for a new opportunity, please send across your latest CV.

Referral Scheme: If you know someone who would be a great fit, feel free to forward their details — we offer a generous referral fee for successful placements.