Senior Planner, Development Management

Thurrock Council's Planning Department plays a key role in shaping the borough's future, ensuring sustainable growth while protecting the character and needs of our communities. As a Senior Planning Officer, you will handle a range of complex and diverse planning applications, provide expert advice, and contribute to the council's place-shaping agenda. Your role will focus on delivering timely and effective planning decisions, working collaboratively with internal teams and external stakeholders to achieve high-quality outcomes., 1. Deliver specialist technical advice on all Development Management matters, including pre-application advice and the effective processing of planning applications, consents, and determinations.
2. Implement the council's place-shaping agenda, promoting the 'right schemes' in the 'right places' at the 'right times.'
3. Provide professional advice to the public, developers, agents, Members, and other stakeholders regarding development proposals and planning matters, through written correspondence, telephone, or in-person communication.
4. Assess and make recommendations on a variety of planning applications, preparing detailed reports for Senior Officers and Members.
5. Contribute to the development and implementation of planning policies to guide the borough's sustainable growth.
6. Prepare and present technical evidence in response to planning appeals and other legal challenges, representing the council's decisions effectively.
7. Collaborate with the Planning Enforcement Team on matters of unauthorised development to ensure compliance with planning policies and regulations.
8. Attend and contribute to meetings with external organisations, the Planning Committee, and working groups as required.

Substantial experience in development management, including handling complex and sensitive planning applications.
- Comprehensive knowledge of planning legislation, policies, and best practices.
- Proven ability to provide clear, concise, and expert technical advice to diverse audiences, including stakeholders, elected members, and the public.
- Strong analytical skills to assess development proposals and make evidence-based recommendations.
- Excellent report-writing and presentation skills, with experience preparing detailed planning reports and presenting evidence at appeals or committees.
- Effective interpersonal and negotiation skills, with a focus on achieving positive outcomes.
- Ability to manage a diverse workload, meet deadlines, and maintain high standards of quality.