The Role

You will take the lead on large-scale development proposals, including major housing allocations (over 3,000 homes), data centres, and affordable housing schemes; many within the Green Belt. The role will involve managing end-to-end applications and planning performance agreements (PPAs), with responsibility for coordinating pre-applications, viability assessments, Section 106 negotiations, and committee presentations.

You'll also contribute to the authority's approach to strategic growth and play a key role in delivering high-quality outcomes through proactive political and stakeholder engagement.

This role is offered on a hybrid basis, with just 1 day per week required in the office.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage a caseload of major and strategic planning applications, including new neighbourhoods, data centres, and mixed-use developments

• Lead on PPAs, working with applicants and consultees to refine proposals during pre-application stages

• Progress sites through planning in sensitive areas including Green Belt and grey belt locations

• Oversee complex planning negotiations, including Section 106 agreements and viability discussions

• Prepare and present reports to Planning Committee and represent the authority at appeals and public inquiries

• Undertake Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reviews and input into emerging site allocations

• Engage regularly with councillors, statutory consultees, and internal departments to ensure schemes are well coordinated

• Provide leadership and support within the Development Management team

About You

• Extensive experience handling major planning applications and strategic sites within a local authority context

• Strong working knowledge of Green Belt and EIA regulations

• Comfortable leading complex casework, including housing-led growth and infrastructure delivery

• Confident managing political engagement and public-facing projects

• RTPI membership (or eligibility) preferred

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and project management skills

Why Apply?

• Up to £60.00 per hour (umbrella)

• Initial 3-month contract with opportunity to extend

• Hybrid working - only 1 day per week in-office

• Work on schemes totalling over 3,000 homes, plus infrastructure and public service development

• Contribute to a high-performing planning service in a key strategic role

Interested?

To apply or find out more, please contact Billy at Park Avenue Recruitment on 07763 200416 or email billy@park-avenue.co.uk.