Principal Planning Officer - Public Inquiry

A local authority in Oxfordshire is looking to appoint an experienced Principal Planning Officer to represent the council at an upcoming Planning Appeal Inquiry relating to logistics development proposals. This will be a 6-7 month contract, commencing ASAP, running until early October.

The Role

They are looking for a Principal Planning Officer to:

• Represent the council at a planning appeal inquiry
• Prepare and present professional planning evidence
• Attend and participate in a public inquiry setting
• Give evidence and respond to cross-examination
• Support preparation work ahead of the inquiry start date

Inquiry Details

• Planning Appeal Inquiry following refusal of three planning applications
• Development type: Logistics (Use Class B8)
• Appeals submitted to the Planning Inspectorate
• Co-joined inquiry
• Duration: 16 working days
• Inquiry start date: Late September 2026

Required ExperienceCandidates should be able to demonstrate:

• Previous experience attending public planning inquiries
• Experience preparing and presenting evidence at inquiry
• Experience giving evidence under cross-examination
• Strong understanding of planning appeal procedures

Essential Requirements

• Ability to act as the council's appointed representative
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Availability to start immediately for preparation work
• Availability for the full duration of the inquiry
• MRTPI

Contract Details

• Duration: 3/4 months
• Location: Oxfordshire
• Start: Immediate
• Rate: £60-£70/h

How to Apply

For more information, please contact Ben Styles or apply via this advert.

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