Planning Officer

We are looking to appoint a Planning Officer to join a multi disciplinary, motivated and friendly Development Management Team. Working for two authorities creates the opportunity to build your knowledge on a wide range of planning applications and to help shape and deliver against our ambitious growth agenda while also protecting our strong built and natural environment.

We have a lot to deliver, handling circa 4000 planning applications per year covering a diverse area including urban areas, rural areas and vibrant market towns. We have some significant housing and commercial sites to deliver alongside enabling infrastructure including large scale residential schemes in Broadland's Growth Triangle, key employment sites including enterprise zones, and a newly adopted Local plan for Greater Norwich to deliver against. We are therefore looking for a Planning Officer to work within one of our area teams who is motivated and ambitious, is a strong team player and ready to play a vital role in helping to create exceptional places to live and work for our residents.

What you'll be doing…

• Process general enquiries and advise on whether planning permission is required
• Assess planning applications and discharge condition applications including site inspections, publicity, liaison with technical consultees, negotiation with applicants/agents, objectors and the public.
• Prepare delegated reports and recommendations to committee in respect of planning applications.
• Prepare evidence, land use history and statements in the preparation of appeals.
• Provide information and advice to the elected members, public and other parties on development management issues.
• Undertake project work/administrative duties in support of the work of the development management team, including monitoring compliance with planning permissions.

The post requires the ability to travel to different locations, but offers a work/life balance with hybrid home and office working. Office days are located in the modern Horizon office building located just outside the historic City of Norwich, a university and cathedral city with a thriving regional arts scene and cosmopolitan culture situated in an area of exceptional natural beauty including The Broads and the Norfolk Coast. The city has the facilities of a regional capital and great transport links. The offices are served directly by city centre bus connections and has its own Beryl bike docking station as well as plentiful cycle parking.

What you'll be doing…

• Process general enquiries and advise on whether planning permission is required
• Assess planning applications and discharge condition applications including site inspections, publicity, liaison with technical consultees, negotiation with applicants/agents, objectors and the public.
• Prepare delegated reports and recommendations to committee in respect of planning applications.
• Prepare evidence, land use history and statements in the preparation of appeals.
• Provide information and advice to the elected members, public and other parties on development management issues.
• Undertake project work/administrative duties in support of the work of the development management team, including monitoring compliance with planning permissions.

Essential Requirements:

• Relevant qualification (HNC or related degree) and/or proven equivalent relevant experience in a planning environment. Minimum 3 A levels or equivalent and GCSEs to include English Language and Maths or NVQ Administration Level 3.
• Ideally will have experience in a Development Management Team determining planning applications.

Closing Date: Sunday 7th June

Interview Date: To be confirmed

Why Join Us?

We offer flexible working hours for most office-based roles, allowing for a healthy work-life balance. As part of our team, you will enjoy a range of employee benefits, including free onsite parking, employee discounts, a competitive holiday allowance, wellbeing initiatives, and the opportunity to join the Local Government Pension Scheme.

You will be joining a progressive and supportive organisation that is committed to making a positive impact on the communities we serve.

The Councils reserve the right to close any and all vacancies at any time if there is judged to be a sufficient number of applications received.

South Norfolk and Broadland Councils are committed to promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and all applicants must be willing to undergo appropriate checks for the position, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.