Planning Officer

Description:

To carry out a broad range of functions under the Town and Country Planning Acts and other related legislation relating to the production and implementation of planning policy documents.
To support the Head of Strategic Service and Local Plan Manager and the team to strengthen the council's plan-making, place-making and infrastructure planning processes.

The general duties and responsibilities of the postholder will fall within the following general areas, subject to the overall direction, policy guidelines and specific instructions of the Strategic Lead and senior officers.

Assist in ensuring the Local Plan Team fulfils the commitments, mission and objectives of Planning Services and the Council as a whole.

Ensuring that all procedures are followed and that all targets are met.

To be acquainted with the various Acts relating to the Council's statutory responsibilities with regard to planning matters, including the relevant legislation, orders, circulars and policies.

Keeping abreast with changes in such legislation and Government advice and making the necessary changes to practice and procedures arising therefrom.

Maintaining a customer orientated approach including fostering good relations with stakeholders and local interest groups, including Forums, where required.

To assist with the work of the Local Plan team, including the preparation, implementation and monitoring of the Local Plan and other planning policy publications.

To assist in the preparation of evidence base documents, including supporting senior officers with external commissions, and assist with the drafting of planning policy and guidance.
To assist with the organisation and delivery of consultations and presentations, including providing support at public exhibitions in respect of the Local Plan Team's area of work.

To assist with the monitoring of policies and indicators and maintaining key registers and databases necessary to meet Government requirements.

To advise on the local policy implications of external planning policy consultations and prepare responses for the Development Management team on planning applications and informal enquiries.
To represent the Council at meetings with landowners, developers and their agents and other authorities.

Dealing with planning policy enquiries from Councillors, stakeholders and the general public.

To prepare draft reports for Cabinet, committees and working groups on planning other and associated matters and attend meetings as required.

Liaising and providing information or advice to other sections of the Directorate, other Council Directorates, Council Members, members of the public and outside bodies and organisations.

In accordance with qualification and experience, preparing statements in respect of appeals made against the Council's decisions on planning and other applications.

Acting at all times in a manner reflecting the aims and objectives of the Council, as instructed by the Local Plan senior officers, including the pursuance of maintaining an efficient and professional service.

Such other responsibilities compatible with the post-holder's qualifications and experience as may be assigned by the Team Leader