Principal Town Planner

Overview

In this role you will lead and deliver major town planning applications for UK infrastructure projects, with a focus on DCOs. You will coordinate multidisciplinary teams, advise on consent requirements, and contribute to client relationships and business development. You’ll work on high-profile energy, transport, water, and housing developments, collaborating with environmental teams to secure planning outcomes. This position offers hybrid working with base locations in Bristol, London, or Manchester and the chance to shape major infrastructure and energy transition projects.

Pay / Benefits

• hybrid work options
• comprehensive compensation, benefits and well-being programs
• global firm with diverse opportunities
• access to industry-leading technology and thinking
• inclusive and supportive work culture
• Disability Confident Employer

Responsibilities

• Lead and assist in delivering major planning applications
• Coordinate multi-disciplinary project teams
• Submit and manage planning applications; liaise with local authorities and stakeholders
• Provide planning advice on consent requirements and PD rights
• Produce feasibility reports and consent strategies
• Draft Planning Statements and Design and Access Statements
• Support business development and client relationship building
• Collaborate with Environmental Impact Assessment team and participate in stakeholder meetings
• Oversee project management, ensuring quality and health & safety compliance

Key requirements

• Degree in Town Planning
• RTPI membership or equivalent
• Significant experience leading planning consent applications for large infrastructure
• Experience across various consenting regimes; expert witness experience advantageous
• Strong client and stakeholder relationship skills; existing networks with clients and local authorities
• Business development experience and ability to win or develop tenders
• Strong written communication; ability to write clearly and concisely
• Ability to work independently, under pressure, and uphold quality
• Commitment to quality and safety

• Collaborative working style
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to work under pressure
• Planning feasibility reports
• Consent strategies
• Planning Statements and Design and Access Statements

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