A Local Authority is seeking a skilled and reliable Senior Planning Officer to support their Development Management team on an interim basis. This role offers a competitive rate of £45.00 per hour, with hybrid working arrangements and the opportunity to work on a wide-ranging caseload of minor and small-scale major planning applications.

The Role

You'll take responsibility for a steady caseload of residential and commercial planning applications-typically including schemes up to 30-50 units. The successful candidate will demonstrate confidence in handling applications from pre-app through to committee and appeal, while supporting performance and quality within the wider team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assess and determine a variety of planning applications, including residential, mixed-use, and commercial schemes

• Provide high-quality pre-application advice in line with national and local planning policies

• Prepare delegated and committee reports with clear, well-justified recommendations

• Present applications at Planning Committee and represent the authority at appeals as required

• Liaise with applicants, agents, consultees, and internal departments to deliver timely outcomes

• Support team colleagues and contribute to a collaborative working culture

About You

• Previous experience as a Senior Planner within a local authority Development Management team

• Strong knowledge of UK planning legislation and policy frameworks

• Ability to manage a varied caseload with minimal supervision

• MRTPI (or eligibility) is desirable

• Excellent report writing, communication, and organisational skills

• Comfortable attending site visits and occasional committee meetings

Why Apply?

• £45.00 per hour (umbrella)

• Hybrid working - only 1 day per week in-office

• Well-supported planning service with consistent leadership

• Work on interesting, manageable schemes with immediate impact

• Flexible start date - interviews taking place soon

Interested?

To apply or learn more, contact Billy at Park Avenue Recruitment on 07763 200416 or email billy@park-avenue.co.uk.

Please note: Not all roles are advertised. I work with multiple Local Authorities across the East of England, recruiting from entry-level to Director-level across Development Management, Planning Enforcement, and Policy teams. I'd be happy to have a confidential chat about other opportunities that may suit your background.