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 ramla.warfa@oysterpartnership.com