Salary: Grade 9 ranging from £44,060 - £48,431 per annum, with a time limited recruitment allowance of £2,289 per annum until 28/02/2027.

Shape the future of Somerset

Join Somerset Council – one of the largest unitary authorities in the country – and work on some of the most varied and high‑profile planning projects in the UK. From major regeneration and nationally significant infrastructure to town centres, rural development and housing growth, you’ll help shape places that matter.

Following local government reorganisation, we’re a single, ambitious council serving nearly 600,000 residents. Our scale and stability offer excellent career development across Development Management, Enforcement, Planning Policy, and Minerals & Waste – including work linked to Hinkley Point C and the Somerset-wide Local Plan.

You’ll join a collaborative, forward‑thinking planning service with embedded flexibility, strong professional support and real opportunities to grow.

Role Summary

You will manage and determine complex planning applications, including major developments, helping to shape sustainable growth across Somerset. This role also supports colleagues and represents the Council at appeals.

What You'll Do - Key Responsibilities

Manage a complex caseload of planning applications.
Negotiate with applicants and stakeholders to achieve compliant development.
Prepare reports and present cases to Planning Committee.
Represent the Council at appeals and inquiries.
Provide professional guidance to planning officers.

Essential

What We’re Looking For – Essential Skills/Experience

Ability to provide detailed advice across a wide range of planning issues within a development management environment
Strong knowledge of planning, enforcement, planning policy, case law and relevant legislation

Ability to interpret planning legislation and case law in relation to pre‑application enquiries, applications, appeals and enforcement matters

Experience of working at senior level in Development Management

Proven ability to manage a complex caseload, balance competing priorities and meet performance targets

Experience of working within a team and supporting team development and continuous professional development

Degree in Town Planning or a related subject (or equivalent experience)

Membership of, or eligibility to join, a relevant professional planning body

Strong negotiation skills with the ability to resolve complex issues positively

Ability to work under pressure, meet strict deadlines and prioritise fluctuating workloads

Clear, confident and proactive communication skills with a wide range of stakeholders

Ability to use influence, persuasion and sound judgement in complex decision‑making

Strong customer focus and ability to build and maintain effective working relationships, including with elected Members

Good IT skills, including data input, report writing and presentations

Methodical, well‑organised approach with a strong work ethic

Flexible, adaptable and able to respond positively to change

Willingness to share knowledge, support colleagues and work effectively as part of a team

Desirable

Experience of representing the local planning authority at appeal, including hearings and public inquiries

Additional Information

Permanent Position, 37 Hours a week.
Flexible and Hybrid working (1-2 days per week in the Office)
30 days annual leave, plus Bank Holidays.
Extensive CPD and peer support.
Opportunity to work on a wide range of interesting projects, offering unique opportunities to develop your experience and skills.

Regretfully, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. We are only able to proceed with candidates who already have the right to work in the UK without the need for Visa sponsorship.

For an informal chat about the role, please contact Nikki Honan, Team Leader at nikki.honan@somerset.gov.uk or Zac Elwood, Area Planning Manager at zac.ellwood@somerset.gov.uk

If you have everything you need, just hit the apply button. We can’t wait to hear from you!

A full job description will be provided to shortlisted candidates or on request.

Senior Planning Officer

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