Principal Planning Officer

Job Details

Are you ready to lead on some of the most exciting and ambitious planning projects in the country?

At [Employer hidden], we’re proud to be recognised by Planning Resource as a Platinum Authority one of only 7 Planning Authorities across the country and we’re looking for a Principal Town Planner to help us go even further.

This is your chance to join a high-performing, award-winning Development Management Team that’s shaping the future of our borough through bold, sustainable growth and innovation.

Why This Role?

You’ll be the lead officer for major, high-profile planning applications, including sustainable urban extensions and strategic land allocations as part of our new Local Plan. You’ll work at the heart of a holistic, co-located team of expert consultees, all dedicated to delivering excellent planning outcomes.

We offer:

• A diverse and challenging caseload—from complex urban regeneration to greenfield development
• A strong scheme of delegation that empowers officers and supports responsive decision-making
• Close collaboration with elected members, engaging with the community and deliver real change

What You’ll Bring

We’re looking for someone with:

• Proven experience in managing complex planning applications and appeals
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• A passion for place-making and sustainable development
• The ability to work collaboratively across disciplines and with stakeholders

What We Offer

• A competitive salary with a generous relocation package considered for exceptional candidates.
• Generous annual leave (24–32 days) + 8 bank holidays + 1 concessionary day
• Flexible & hybrid working to support your lifestyle
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Learning & development pathways to support your career
• Employee benefits scheme with discounts on shopping, travel, and more
• Health & wellbeing support, including counselling and EAP
• Free on-site parking
• ️ A modern office in the heart of Telford Town Centre—surrounded by green space, leisure, and culture

At [Employer hidden], we’re proud of our inclusive culture and diverse workforce. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities.

Closing date:  Sunday 18 January 2026

Written assessments and face to face interviews:  27 January 2026 @ SW1

Attached documents

Job Description

Company

Join Team Telford – Where People Make the Difference

We’re proud to be the LGC Local Authority of the Year 2025 – and it’s all thanks to our incredible people.

At [Employer hidden], we don’t just deliver services – we protect, care, and invest in our borough. Our teams are trusted, supported, and empowered to make a real impact.

We offer:

A friendly, inclusive and dynamic workplace, competitive pay, generous benefits, flexible working and great development opportunities.  A culture that celebrates diversity and champions inclusion.

If you’re passionate about making a difference, we’d love to hear from you.

We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and we actively welcome applications from all backgrounds. Diversity makes us stronger — and we’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone can thrive.

We offer a guaranteed interview schemefor eligible candidates and have clear policies supporting inclusive recruitment, including for ex-offenders and trans and non-binary applicants.

Need help applying? Call our HR Helpdesk on [contact hidden] or email [contact hidden].

⏳ Heads up: we may close applications early if we get a high volume of great candidates — so don’t wait!