Planning Policy Officer

Planning Policy Officer

Salary:per annum
Grade:F
Hours:37 Hours Per Week
Contract:Permanent

About Us:

Thurrock Council is on an exciting journey to enhance our planning services and we are making significant strides. Following a comprehensive review by the Planning Advisory Service we have implemented numerous improvements that have been recognised as going above and beyond the initial recommendations. We are committed to continuing this progress and are looking for passionate individuals to join our team and contribute to our mission.

About the Role

Thurrock Councils Planning Service is committed to shaping the future of our borough by delivering highquality sustainable development outcomes that positively impact our local environment economy and community. As a Planning Policy Officer you will play a pivotal role in influencing planning policy and contributing to decisions that have longterm impacts on the boroughs development.

In this role you will undertake critical research evaluation and project work ensuring council priorities such as affordable housing delivery and environmental sustainability are embedded in planning decisions. You will also provide expert advice on the statutory planning process and help monitor and report on the effectiveness of planning policies and decisions in achieving the councils aims.

Key Responsibilities:

• Research and Casework:Conduct research and evaluate planning projects ensuring recommendations align with the councils priorities and have positive impacts on the boroughs development and environmental sustainability.
• Advice and Guidance:Provide expert advice on the statutory planning process ensuring clarity accuracy and awareness of potential legal reputational and financial risks for the council.
• Monitoring and Reporting:Ensure that the impacts of planning policies and decisions are monitored reported and effectively communicated to demonstrate their contribution to the councils objectives.
• Collaboration:Work closely with colleagues other professional staff and partner organizations to deliver planning projects policies and decisions in line with project management principles and procedures.
• Service Excellence:Contribute to service innovation and promote excellence ensuring efficient and effective delivery of all aspects of the planning service.
• Political Awareness:Demonstrate political awareness when providing advice to the public council officers and stakeholders on planning decisions policies and projects.

Skills and Experience Required:

• Strong understanding of planning policy and development management including its environmental social and economic impacts.
• Experience in conducting research and evaluating planning projects or casework.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present complex information clearly and accurately.
• Strong problemsolving skills and the ability to work on highimpact projects.
• Experience in collaborative working with multidisciplinary teams and external stakeholders.
• Political awareness and sensitivity in handling planningrelated advice and issues.
• A commitment to delivering highquality and innovative planning services.

Why Join Thurrock Council

The Council Planning function is making fantastic progress. We have implemented tangible measures for real improvements. Join us in building a better future for Thurrock. Help us continue to make a difference.

As a Planning Policy Officer you will be at the heart of shaping the boroughs future development while addressing critical issues such as environmental sustainability and housing delivery.

What We Offer:

• A dynamic and supportive work environment.
• Professional growth opportunities.
• The chance to make a tangible impact on the community.
• Recognition and appreciation for your contributions.

Our Culture:

At Thurrock Council we believe in fostering a culture of inclusivity innovation and collaboration. We value diversity and strive to create an environment where every team member feels empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Our commitment to continuous improvement and excellence drives us to support each other and celebrate our successes together.

A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check is not required for this post.

Advert Closing Date:

Redeployment Only: 15th May 2025

Internal & External Applications: 1st June 2025

Interview Date:TBC

For further information please contact Ashley Baldwin at

To view the Job Profile and Person Specification please follow the link below:

Download Job Profile (PDF Document)

If you encounter an error message when opening the Job Profile link please refresh the error page.