Principal Town Planner

Overview

I'm currently supporting Sussex Council who are looking for an interim Principal Planner to join their Major Development team. This is a great opportunity to take on a high-profile caseload of major applications while working on a hybrid basis.

Responsibilities

• Managing a caseload of major planning applications through to decision.


• Preparing officer reports and recommendations for committee and under delegated powers.


• Handling planning appeals and representing the council at inquiries where needed.


• Advising councillors, colleagues, and the public on planning matters.


• Keeping up to date with planning law, policy, and case law.


• Providing support to junior officers and deputising for senior management where required.

Qualifications

• RTPI membership and a postgraduate qualification in planning.


• Strong experience of major planning applications at senior level (local authority background preferred).


• Excellent knowledge of planning law, policy, and case law.


• Strong report writing, communication, and political awareness skills.


• Full UK driving licence (site visits required).

Details

• Rate: £30-£40ph (via agency PAYE or umbrella, IR35 status to be confirmed with the client)


• Location: Haywards Heath (hybrid - min. 1 day per week in office + committees/site visits)


• Start: ASAP


• Duration: Up to 12 months


• Hours: 37 per week, 9-5 (flexible)

If you're interested, or know someone in your network who might be, please send me an updated CV and we can arrange a call to discuss further.