Principal Planning Officer (Solar Farms)
*Job Type: Part-time (3 days per week, flexible to increase based on workload)
*Location: Doncaster / Hybrid
*Salary: Competitive, based on experience
We are seeking a Principal Planning Officer with expertise in planning and development management at Principal Planner level, ideally with experience in national infrastructure projects (ideally solar farms). This role is crucial for managing a significant application for a solar farm, with the potential for contract extension depending on project needs and funding availability.
Day-to-day of the role:
*Provide specialist planning advice and handle major planning applications, focusing primarily on a solar farm project.
*Manage your own caseload, determining planning applications and other matters in line with the Council’s approved scheme of delegation.
*Develop and implement statutory and non-statutory policies and strategies, including all aspects of statutory planning policy.
*Prepare and advise on Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and Section 106 matters.
*Engage in pre-application discussions and negotiations with developers to refine proposals and ensure compliance with planning policies.
*Act as the Council’s expert witness in planning/enforcement appeals or examinations in public.
*Support and advise on the planning enforcement process and represent the Planning Services Management Team as required.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
*Planning qualification to degree level (or equivalent) and full membership of the RTPI (or evidence of working towards full membership).
*Proven local authority experience in Policy Planning, dealing with major planning applications, and preparing evidence at appeals or examinations.
*Strong ability to write and present clear reports and evidence on complex planning matters.
*Experience in some level of supervision or management.
*Specific experience with solar farms is highly desirable.
Benefits:
*Competitive salary and flexible working arrangements.
*Opportunity to work on significant national infrastructure projects.
*Professional development opportunities in a supportive environment.
To apply for the Principal Planning Officer position, please submit your CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and specific interest in solar farm projects