Planning Officer - Development Management

Our client, a local authority in Devon is currently seeking an experienced Area Team Manager to join their Development Management service. This is a senior role responsible for leading a team of planning officers while managing major and strategically significant planning applications. This position offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced planning professional to play a key role in shaping development across the district, ensuring planning decisions deliver positive outcomes for communities, housing and the environment.

Package:

- £65ph-£82ph depending on whether PAYE/umbrella.

- Holiday pay accrued on top of hourly rate if PAYE.

- Weekly pay - Initially 6-month contract but could lead to further opportunities.

- April 2026 start date - 37.5 hours a week - Hybrid working , at least 2 days per week in the office, occasionally more depending on service needs. Candidates do not have to live locally but must be able to travel regularly to Newton Abbot for those days.

- Supportive and friendly team

Key Responsibilities Leading and managing a team of planning officers, including workload allocation and performance management. Acting as case officer for complex and major planning applications Providing expert development management advice on planning, design, environmental and conservation matters Delivering pre-application advice and negotiating improvements to development proposals Preparing and presenting reports to the Planning Committee Attending committee meetings to present applications and provide professional advice.

Acting as an expert witness at planning appeals, hearings and public inquiries Supporting the preparation of Planning Committee agendas Working closely with councillors, internal teams, developers and external stakeholders Supporting the strategic direction of the Development Management service Ensuring decisions and recommendations comply with relevant legislation and planning policy. Essential

Experience:

Postgraduate qualification in Town Planning Corporate Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Extensive experience in Development Management, ideally within a Local Planning Authority Experience leading or managing a team. Strong understanding of planning legislation and policy Key Skills Excellent presentation and public speaking skills Strong report writing and analytical ability. Leadership and team management skills Excellent communication and negotiation abilities Ability to interpret complex technical and planning information.

Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills Awareness of political and community considerations within planning This is a high-impact planning leadership role, offering the opportunity to influence major development across the district while working within a supportive and forward-thinking planning team. IND4P