Senior/Principal Planning Officer – Major Applications (12-18-Month Contract)
Rate: £50 - £70 per hour - OUTSIDE IR35
Working Pattern: Hybrid – with flexibility (plus on-site/office meetings as required)
A local authority is looking for an experienced Principal Planning Officer to take the lead on a major residential development of approximately 2,400 dwellings. This is a significant, high-profile scheme, and the council is about to enter into pre-application discussions with the developer. The role will involve overseeing the pre-app process and progressing the subsequent hybrid planning application.
Key Responsibilities
• Lead on a major development of circa 2,400 units, handling both pre-app and application stages.
• Manage Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs) and act as a primary point of contact for applicants, developers, and consultants.
• Oversee pre-application discussions, providing clear, robust planning advice.
• Process the hybrid application, ensuring high-quality assessments and timely progression.
• Prepare detailed reports and present recommendations to senior officers and committees where required.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams and support junior planners where appropriate.
About You
• Proven experience dealing with large-scale major applications, ideally schemes of a similar size or complexity.
• Strong understanding of PPAs, pre-apps, and negotiation processes.
• Ability to manage complex projects independently while maintaining high professional standards.
• Confident communicator with the ability to influence and engage key stakeholders.
• Willingness to attend the office regularly and be on site when required.
Contract Details
• 18-month contract, covering the pre-app period and progression of the hybrid application.
• Hybrid working: with flexibility, plus in-person meetings as needed.
• Up to £65 per hour for the right candidate.
This Role can be deemed outside IR35
For more information, please apply by submitting your CV and contact Ramla Warfa on 07378553346 or email [email protected]
