The successful candidate should have a minimum of 2 years experience in a planning policy role, is expected to contribute towards a working culture that is result-orientated and customer-focused, with an ethos of ‘right first time’ service delivery, and to be responsible for their own continuous personal development by requesting and attending training when necessary.
Key tasks and accountabilities are intended to be a guide to the range and level of work expected for this role. This is not an exhaustive list of all tasks, and employees will be expected to carry out such other reasonable duties which may be required from time to time. Specific responsibilities include:
• Support the preparation, approval, and implementation of Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs), including developing masterplans, design codes, and other policy.
• Contribute to the preparation of the Joint Waste Plan and Local Plan, including future Local Plan review processes, development of evidence, drafting policy text, supporting consultation and supporting Examination in Public as required.
• Support the preparation of an Infrastructure Delivery Plan, and broader infrastructure planning and funding, including the allocation of Section 106 and Community Infrastructure Levy funding.
• Provide planning policy advice to development management officers, colleagues across Council, Councillors, and the community.
• Engage with residents, developers, community groups, and other stakeholders through public consultations and community engagement events.
• Undertake research and data analysis to support the work of the team.
• Work collaboratively across the organisation and with Council teams, including with development management, transport, housing and design.
• Support the team to respond to planning policy consultations from central government, the GLA, neighbouring boroughs, and other organisations as required.
• Prepare and present reports and briefings to the Lead Member, Planning Members, and other committees as required. Support the preparation and attendance of meetings where necessary, including occasionally outside of business hours.
• Monitor and report on the implementation of planning policies, including the Infrastructure Funding Statement, five-year housing land supply and annual monitoring reports (AMR).
• Keep up-to-date with changes in planning legislation and policy to ensure local compliance and forward planning.
Person Specification
Essential skills and experience
• A recognised degree in Town Planning and sufficient post qualification experience to qualify for membership of the RTPI, or a related degree and ability to gain entry to a course leading to a professional qualification.
• Knowledge of national, regional, and local planning policy frameworks and relevant legislation, and an understanding of the impact of legislative or administrative changes affecting the service.
• IT literate with experience of using Word, PowerPoint and other software packages to record and manage data.
• Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate with a range of audiences and work in a calm, courteous, and confident professional manner.
• Excellent attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work under pressure.
• Able to think and work proactively, “self-start” and work autonomously with minimum direct supervision.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities, delivering high quality outcomes within required timeframes.
