Town Planner (Planning Consultancy)

Overview

In this Planner role at WSP’s Planning Consultancy in Central Birmingham, you will help shape planning strategies for housing and employment developments, navigating policy frameworks and development plans. You will work with multidisciplinary teams to deliver robust planning advice on complex schemes, from feasibility to planning permissions and appeals. You’ll engage with clients and authorities to progress landmark projects and contribute to a growing planning practice. This opportunity combines hands-on project delivery with collaboration across WSP’s global network, offering development support and a clear path to Chartership.

Pay / Benefits

• Work-life balance
• Hybrid working policy (home two days a week)
• Flexible working arrangements
• Thrive health and wellbeing programme
• Virtual GP service
• Gymflex scheme

Responsibilities

• Develop planning strategies and assess site history against development plans and policies
• Prepare briefing notes on likelihood of planning permission for housing or employment uses
• Draft clear, persuasive planning statements and documentation
• Assist in multidisciplinary project delivery and ensure integration of cross-functional advice
• Attend site visits, design team, and client meetings
• Manage project delivery and budgetary control for planning projects
• Coordinate with Transport and Sustainability teams to incorporate their input
• Monitor planning applications and respond to consultations with clients and teams

Key requirements

• Degree level qualification in town planning
• Postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject
• Chartered status (MRTPI / NIPA)
• Solid knowledge of the UK planning system gained in private sector
• Strong technical planning skills and a commercial approach to consultancy
• Desire to grow within a expanding planning team
• Strong organisational and communication skills

• Strong communication skills
• Team player with a can-do attitude
• Proactive and initiative driven
• Planning policy analysis
• Preparation of planning documentation
• Negotiations with planning authorities and stakeholders

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