We are seeking a Senior Enforcement Officer to join our Delivery and Enforcement team.

We are a well-staffed and high performing team that are responsible for

investigating, monitoring and where appropriate taking action against alleged breaches of planning controls in a constrained area which includes Green Belt, National Landscape and other sensitive environments. Resolving issues through discussion and negotiation is also a key part of the role. You will spend much of your time out and about visiting sites but will also work from home or the office to assess and collate evidence, Tasks relating to the investigation of alleged breaches of planning control to include site inspections, negotiating, and monitoring in respect of unauthorised development and other breaches of planning control.
Assist in the preparation of cases for enforcement or other legal action within appropriate timescales including statements in relation to appeal and court proceedings.
Manage effective relationships with applicants, agents, town and parish councils, council employees and the public.
Communicate effectively with colleagues and customers both verbally and in writing through the appropriate use of case or site notes and other records.
See the attached career grade structure for further information.
Valid driving licence and own transport, or be able to provide alternative, suitable method of travel is an essential condition for this role.

Work Style

At North Somerset Council, we offer a hybrid working environment based on four distinct work styles. Depending on the role and personal circumstances, you will fall into one of these categories. However, please note that during the induction period, it may be necessary to spend more time in the office to support your learning and development. We are flexible and open to discussions about your preferred working style, and if you wish to be in the office more frequently, this can be negotiated.

This role falls into the category of Flexible Worker which means you can expect to work in the following way:

Flexible Worker
2-3 days in the office
Works both from home and the office, depending on the task at hand.
Training is provided to help balance work-life and manage time effectively, with an emphasis on communication for team touchpoints and planning in-office days for collaboration.

The position requires either experience of enforcement of legislation or working knowledge of Town and Country planning law preferably with some experience relevant to the role. Good communication skills and attention to detail are important. Our challenges are wide ranging and as a result the role provides a great opportunity to develop your experience and skills., We are looking for an individual who is passionate about planning and enforcement, and who possesses the following skills and experience, Vocational qualification or evidence of working to level 3 or 4 relevant to planning practice
Practical experience of working within a planning / enforcement or related environment.
Demonstrate a good understanding of planning policy, legislation, processes and practices.
Valid driving license and own transport, or be able to provide alternative, suitable method of travel.

Desirable Criteria:

Undergraduate Degree in Town and Country Planning or equivalent
Eligibility for membership of RTPI
Customer service experience, Disability Confident
About Disability Confident
A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to .

North Somerset Council is committed to providing high-quality services to our community. We are committed to creating a fair, green, and more inclusive environment for all our residents. Join us and contribute to making a positive impact on our community.

Competitive salary and benefits
Flexible working arrangements
Local Government Pension
Opportunities for professional development
Inclusive Staff groups including Carers, Disabled, LGBTQ+, REACH (Race, Ethnicity, and Cultural Heritage), and Young Staff Forums
Opportunity to purchase up to an additional 10 days annual leave each year
Dedicated in house Wellbeing Team
Salary sacrifice Cycle to Work and Electric Vehicle schemes

Further details of our excellent rewards package can be found in our Benefits booklet.