Planning Consultant

Location: Shaldon

The Company

A highly respected, independent planning consultancy based in the Teignbridge area is continuing its growth and is now looking to appoint an experienced Planning Consultant to join its close-knit team.

While boutique in size, this practice consistently delivers work well beyond expectations, advising a broad and impressive client base that includes developers, national contractors, local businesses and private landowners. Their projects span an intriguing mix of residential, commercial, marine, highways, education and care, ensuring no two weeks ever feel the same.

The consultancy provides full end-to-end planning support — from promoting land and development opportunities through to securing planning consent and managing planning risk. Their work regularly includes negotiating with local planning authorities, leading appeals to the Planning Inspectorate and delivering Environmental Impact Assessments where required.
Every instruction is approached strategically, with careful consideration given to policy, site constraints and the local political landscape. Planning risk management is central to everything they do.

The Role

This is a genuinely varied and stimulating opportunity for a Planning Consultant who enjoys responsibility, autonomy and intellectual challenge.
Working across a diverse portfolio of developments throughout the South West — with a particular emphasis on residential and commercial schemes — you’ll manage up to five commissions at any one time, taking projects from early appraisal through to submission and beyond.

You’ll be fully supported by the Director, who remains closely involved in project initiation, client relationships and the review of key deliverables, as well as by a collaborative and friendly wider team.

Key Responsibilities  
Researching planning histories, policy context and environmental constraints
Undertaking site visits across the South West
Acting as the primary point of contact for clients and project teams
Coordinating with architects, engineers, ecologists and other consultants
Liaising directly with Local Planning Authorities and statutory consultees
Coordinating meetings and preparing clear, concise records
Reviewing drawings, technical reports and supporting documentation
Preparing Planning Appraisals, Planning Statements and related reports
Completing and submitting planning applications and associated materials
Managing the compilation and submission of full planning application packs  

The Ideal Candidate You’ll be an experienced Planning Consultant with around 3–4 years’ experience gained within a planning consultancy environment. A planning-related degree would be advantageous.
You’ll bring strong technical ability, excellent written communication skills and the confidence to manage multiple projects and client relationships simultaneously. Most importantly, you’ll enjoy working collaboratively and delivering high-quality planning advice that genuinely adds value.

What’s In It For You?  
A supportive, personable working environment where your contribution truly matters
A tailored development plan, including RTPI support and funded CPD
Hybrid working to balance office, site and home commitments
A diverse workload that keeps the role interesting and rewarding
Direct access to the Director for mentoring, guidance and progression
The opportunity to make a real impact within a respected South West consultancy
Flexible approach to hours and work location
Regular team check-ins, a collaborative culture and a genuinely happy workplace