Principal and Senior Planning Officers Before you apply -Turn on alerts for jobs like this!

Oversee the Council's Planning Enforcement Service, managing a team of enforcement officers. Handle complex investigations into breaches of planning control, serving notices, and preparing for legal proceedings. Engage with enforcement bodies, community groups, and businesses to uphold planning policies. Lead the review and implementation of the West Lancashire Enforcement Plan.

Experience: Significant experience in planning, with a track record in development management, strategic planning, or enforcement.

Education: A degree in Town Planning or a related field. Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) is desirable.

Skills: Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Ability to think strategically and innovate.

Passion: A commitment to sustainable development and community engagement.

At West Lancashire Borough Council, we are proud to be expanding our talented Planning Service. Following well-deserved internal promotions and a strong investment in the development of our staff, our team is more capable and innovative than ever before. We are now looking to build on this success by recruiting passionate and committed planning professionals who want to make a lasting impact in a vibrant and growing community.

We offer exciting opportunities across multiple areas of planning, with positions available for Principal Planning Officers and Senior Planning Officers in Development Management, Strategic Planning, and Enforcement. If you are ready to contribute to our forward-thinking service, shape the future of West Lancashire, and grow your career in a supportive, dynamic environment, we want to hear from you!

Why West Lancashire?

Exceptional Environment: Enjoy the tranquility of picturesque countryside alongside the vibrancy of bustling towns and communities.

Fantastic Team: Join a dedicated and supportive group of professionals passionate about making a difference.

Professional Growth: We are committed to your development, offering extensive training and career advancement opportunities.

Innovation and Collaboration: Be part of a team that embraces new ideas and approaches, always striving for excellence.

Community Impact: Help shape a sustainable future while preserving the rich heritage and natural beauty of West Lancashire.

Principal Planning Officer (Development Management)

Salary Range: PO3 £46,731 to £48,710 per annum

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
As a Principal Planning Officer in Development Management, you will:

Lead and inspire a team of planning officers, guiding them to deliver high-quality outcomes. Manage complex planning applications and provide expert advice. Engage with stakeholders, including developers, community groups, and elected members. Contribute to shaping planning policies and strategies for sustainable growth.

Principal Planning Officer (Strategic Planning)

Salary Range: PO3 £46,731 to £48,710 per annum| Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
In this strategic role, you will:

Support the Strategic Planning Manager and lead a team focused on creating and implementing the Local Plan. Manage evidence gathering and consultant engagements for strategic planning projects. Lead the development of environmental strategies and review planning processes. Represent the Council at appeals and public inquiries.

Principal Planning Enforcement Officer

Salary Range: PO3 £46,731 to £48,710 per annum| Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
As our lead in Planning Enforcement, you will, Competitive Salary: Reflective of your skills and experience.

Flexible Working: Supporting work-life balance with hybrid and home-working options.

Pension Scheme: Generous local government pension scheme.

Annual Leave: Generous entitlement to help you recharge.

Health and Wellbeing: Access to employee assistance programs and wellbeing initiatives.