Principal Planning Officer £55 - £60 per hour (Umbrella)6-12 Month ContractHybrid Working - Office Attendance Required 1 Day Per Week We are currently seeking an experienced Principal Planning Officer to join a busy local authority planning service on an initial 6-12 month contract. This is a key role within the team, offering the opportunity to lead on high-profile and complex planning matters while supporting the continued delivery of an excellent planning service. Key Requirements Postgraduate RTPI-accredited planning qualification. Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (MRTPI). Full, clean UK driving licence. Access to a vehicle. Ability to attend the office one day per week. Key Responsibilities Manage a caseload of large-scale and complex planning applications and pre-application enquiries. Provide clear, balanced and professional planning advice to councillors, colleagues, developers and local communities. Lead on planning appeals, representing the Council at hearings and public inquiries where required. Negotiate planning obligations, including affordable housing and infrastructure contributions. Prepare and present comprehensive reports to Planning Committee and other stakeholder meetings, ensuring robust and well-reasoned decision making. Make delegated planning decisions in line with policy and legislative requirements. Support, mentor and guide colleagues, helping to maintain a consistent and high-quality planning service, including direct line ..... full job details .....