A Local Authority in the East of England is seeking a highly experienced Principal Planning Policy Officer to support its Planning Policy team during a key stage in Local Plan preparation. This is an excellent interim opportunity offering £60.00 per hour, with flexible hybrid working and the chance to lead on critical areas of policy development and delivery.

The Role

The council is currently preparing to consult on its Local Plan: Publication Draft (Regulation 19). You will play a key role in preparing supporting documents, drafting and reviewing policy, engaging with stakeholders, and helping guide the plan toward examination. With legal complexity, ambitious growth objectives, and a strong emphasis on deliverability, this is a rewarding role for a planner who has experience "on the ground" across multiple authorities.

You’ll also provide support to junior officers, contribute to team leadership, and help coordinate cross-service collaboration with Development Management and other departments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead on the preparation of planning policy and supporting evidence for the Regulation 19 stage

• Draft and review Local Plan policies, topic papers, and technical documents

• Provide strategic planning advice to senior officers, Members, and stakeholders

• Liaise with developers, statutory consultees, and infrastructure partners

• Contribute to Sustainability Appraisals, Infrastructure Delivery Plans, and Duty to Cooperate evidence

• Monitor national policy changes and assess local implications

• Support junior officers with mentoring and day-to-day oversight

• Assist in preparing for examination and post-Reg 19 consultation activity

About You

• Extensive experience in Local Plan preparation, ideally including Regulation 19 consultation

• Ability to write clear, robust policy and technical documents

• Comfortable working independently and managing complex workloads

• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, including with developers and statutory bodies

• Strong understanding of national planning policy, plan-making legislation, and infrastructure planning

• MRTPI membership (or eligibility) preferred

Why Apply?

• £60.00 per hour (umbrella)

• Initial 3-month contract with strong potential to extend

• Hybrid working supported

• Play a lead role in delivering a Regulation 19 Local Plan

• Join a high-performing team shaping long-term strategy in a complex planning environment

Interested?

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

Please note: Not all roles are advertised. I work with multiple Local Authorities across the East of England, placing contractors across Planning Policy, Development Management, and Enforcement. If this role isn’t quite right, I’d be happy to discuss other suitable opportunities with you.