Planning Policy Officer Ref: 65-24

Job Advert

Salary: Grade 8, £30,873 - £36,841 per annum (pay award pending) subject to Job Evaluation
Hours: Full time, 37 hours per week
Place of Work: Dereham (remote-enabled)
Basis: Permanent

Would you like a job where what you do:

Makes a difference to a large area for residents and business?
Allows you to develop your skills and learn from others?
Creates a lasting legacy which will impact generations to come?

Contribute to the update of the of the Council's Local Plan, a key document setting out the vision and growth strategy for the District, the production of individual documents within and informing the Local Plan to meet the milestones in the local development scheme. Supporting the production of Neighbourhood Development Plans throughout the production process including new designations for Neighbourhood Areas.

Planning and Development: We regulate the use of land in the public interest. Providing a framework for the delivery of sustainable homes and jobs for Breckland residents in the long term.

You will:

Contribute to the update of the Council's Local Plan and to the production of individual documents within and informing the Local Plan to meet the milestones in the local development scheme;
Support the preparation and review of studies or advisory services from external consultants;
Supporting the production of Neighbourhood Development Plans throughout the production process including new designations for Neighbourhood Areas.
Support the preparation and adoption/approval and implementation of other planning documents and plans - including strategies, action plans, planning briefs, supplementary guidance, proofs of evidence, press releases and consultation material;
Undertake consultation processes on development plan and other documents in agreement with the Planning Policy Manager and/or the Director of Planning;
Prepare reports to Committees, officer groups, public meetings / consultations and Inspectorate examinations; (This may require evening and / or weekend work)
Provide support and advice to the development management team, on strategically important planning applications, enforcement and appeals

About you:

Collaborative

I look for ways to work in partnership and listen supportively to the ideas of others, building on their ideas, while sharing my views and knowledge.
I recognise the skills, talent and experience of others and reach out to them for their contribution and input.
I recognise, appreciate and praise others for their contribution.

Ambitious

I always ask myself 'How could we do this better?', taking ownership of change and helping others to understand, adapt, implement, and embed it.
I have an open mindset, take risks and explore new ways of doing things.
My approach to work is filled with positivity and optimism.
I am a proud ambassador, taking pride and responsibility for the work we do and encouraging others to do the same.

Results-driven

I review my own performance and ask for feedback to learn and improve.
I make sure I am clear on what I need to achieve, keeping a focus on results and solutions.
I am driven, showing courage and resilience even when things don't go to plan.
I keep to my promises and challenge myself and others to deliver high-quality services.

Empowering

I show energy and drive to explore new opportunities and challenge the status quo - acting on opportunities to generate income or reduce costs, embracing new technology and promoting digitalisation.
I ask for help and support when needed, and take responsibility if things don't go well, learning from it for my own and for the organisation's development.
I appropriately challenge unacceptable behaviour.

Supportive

I treat others as I would want to be treated myself, ensuring that I am welcoming, friendly and approachable.
I care for my colleagues, take an interest in them, and show support for their personal identities and what's important to them.
I understand and take care of my own wellbeing, as well as the wellbeing of those around me.
I give time to colleagues who need help or support.

OK, I'm interested...but is it really the job for me?

As our Planning Policy Officer you will:

You will have experience of working effectively in a team and demonstrable knowledge of the role that planning plays within local government.

The work that you will carry out will shape the future of development over each plan period, the Local Plan and related documents will be utilised and built on to meet the needs of the residents and the aspirations of the Council.

On a day-to-day basis your role will be varied and will progress as your experience grows. You will engage in face-to-face consultations with residents using good communication skills to answer questions on all topics and be a point of contact different aspects of the Local Plan and other related documents. You will author reports for committee, officer groups, consultations and a wide range of purposes. You will develop your knowledge to assist colleagues by providing excellent verbal and written advice.

You will have the opportunity to grow and develop in different areas working closely with the team to deliver an outstanding service. A willingness to work together and demonstrable collaborative skills will be required as well as excellent organisational skills and a desire to deliver an optimal service.

Closing date: 17:00, Tuesday 22 April 2025