Local Plan Coordinator

Thurrock Council is seeking a Local Plan Co-ordinator to lead the operational delivery of the Local Plan, ensuring its alignment with the Council's broader strategic objectives. The role involves managing a multidisciplinary team, coordinating workstreams, and overseeing the development of a robust evidence base to support the Local Plan and associated Development Plan Documents. This pivotal position will ensure the successful delivery of the Local Plan, working closely with the Planning Policy and Implementation Manager to achieve key milestones.
Key Responsibilities
1. Ensure the Council's Strategic Planning function is fully integrated with corporate objectives, driving progress toward shared goals.
2. Coordinate the work programme for officers supporting the Local Plan, ensuring workload priorities are realistic and aligned with strategic targets.
3. Oversee and balance the workload of landscape, ecology, and design teams, ensuring their contributions to both the Local Plan and wider planning services are effectively managed.
4. Manage the procurement, commissioning, and delivery of a robust evidence base to underpin the Local Plan and associated documents.
5. Prepare corporate reports, correspondence, and responses to enquiries from councillors, stakeholders, and the public.
6. Lead consultation events and presentations, including public exhibitions, ensuring clear and accessible communication about the Local Plan process.
7. Prepare and present the council's evidence at public examinations, inquiries, and other formal forums, representing the Local Plan's vision and objectives.
8. Build productive relationships with landowners, developers, agents, and other authorities to support the plan-making process.
9. Effectively manage the Local Plan budget, ensuring resources are allocated and monitored to deliver the best outcomes.

Demonstrated experience in Local Plan delivery or strategic planning roles within a local authority or similar environment.
- Strong programme management skills, with the ability to coordinate complex workstreams and meet critical deadlines.
- Comprehensive understanding of planning legislation, policy-making processes, and best practices.
- Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
- Skilled in preparing reports, delivering presentations, and representing an organisation in formal settings such as examinations or inquiries.
- Experience managing budgets and securing value for money through procurement and project oversight.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.