Senior Planning Policy Officer

• Ipswich Borough Council Ipswich Suffolk IP1 2DE
• Senior Planning Policy Officer 2 posts
• Post one:hours per week
• Post two:.6 hours per week
• Full Time or Part Time
• Permanent
• Reference: 0184
• Required as soon as possible

Exciting career opportunities with Ipswich Borough Councils Planning Department!

Ipswich Borough Councils Planning Department is looking for two motivated ambitious Senior Planning Policy Officers to join our Planning Policy Team. An exciting opportunity to join us at the start of Local Plan making journey under the new planmaking system.

About Ipswich

Ipswich is one of the fastest growing regional centres in England and is the largest centre in Suffolk for business culture entertainment and sports. A university town with a rich history and heritage and a thriving Waterfront. Backed by successful Towns Fund bids there are a wealth of exciting opportunities in the pipeline.

About the role

The role primarily involves the preparation of evidence base studies monitoring and supporting the preparation of the next Ipswich Local Plan which is due to commence in in 2025/6 and by joining us now you will play a key role from the very beginning!

There is also significant opportunity to work collaboratively with neighbouring local authorities and Suffolk County Council on strategic planning matters. This role will allow the successful candidate the opportunity to further develop their skill set providing analysis and working to support other officers; report writing project management; the opportunity to write guidance to expand on planning policy and to get involved in helping to deliver allocations by working with developers and site owners as well as input into masterplanning larger sites.

In addition the role will also afford the opportunity to work closely with the councils busy Development Management team.

About you

Were looking for a motivated and proactive Town Planner with a relevant degree or post graduate diploma or an NVQ Level 6 qualification in planning or a relevant field.

Ideally you will have previous Local Plan making experience.

Given the increased housing numbers and emphasis for growth nationwide we are looking for a candidate with experience of or keen interest in housing as a topic area. Further to support a future Examination in Public we are keen to ensure candidates are members of the RTPI.

Effective project management skills and a genuine passion for improving our built environment are a must. Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with key stakeholders are essential.

Why work for us

Your hard work will be rewarded with a fantastic benefits package including a career average pension scheme generous holiday entitlement of 26 days (increasing to 32 days after five years of service) full payment of annual RTPI membership subscriptions free swimming and gym membership and flexibility to work from home and in the office.

Excellent travel benefits including free travel on Ipswich Buses discounts on Greater Anglia rail season and flexiseason tickets access to a cycletowork scheme and subsidised parking in Ipswich Borough Council car parks for work and leisure.

Were all about growth so personal and professional development opportunities abound. Plus weve got a supportive Employee Assistance Program to help you along the way.

Join our vibrant team for hybrid working and seize the chance to shape Ipswichs future. Dont miss this opportunity to be part of a growing department thats making Ipswich an even better placeto live!

For more information

To find out more about this role please read the Job Description and Person Specification (pdf).

Please contact Anna Roe Planning Policy Team Leader by calling 0 or by emailing orJames Mann Head of Planning and Development by emailing .

How to apply

To apply please complete an application by visiting our website ().

Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to interview candidates who meet the essential criteria prior to the closing date and / or to close the opportunity to applicants once we receive sufficient applications.

Please note CVs are not accepted.

Closing date: 12pm 1 June 2025

Interview date: Week commencing 9 June 2025

Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to interview candidates who meet the essential criteria prior to the closing date and / or to close the opportunity to applicants once we receive sufficient applications.

Please note CVs are not accepted.

The selection process will involve a prepared exercise (which will be sent to you if you are selected for interview) involving a presentation to the Interview Panel.

If you require any assistance or reasonable adjustments during the application or recruitment process please let us know so that the appropriate arrangements can be put in place.