Principal Planning Policy Officer (Gr J)*

Who You Are

You are a professional dedicated to delivering the best possible outcomes for the community within the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. You thrive in an agile and networked organisation and are committed to supporting continuous improvement within a constructive organisational culture. You possess the dedication and resilience to work positively with customers, stakeholders, Councillors, and colleagues, while demonstrating behaviours consistent with the Core Competency Framework.

What the Job Involves

The role encompasses supporting the operational needs and delivery outcomes of the Strategic Planning and Infrastructure team. Responsibilities include development management and spatial planning work such as planning applications, appeals, enforcement, area-based planning strategies, planning briefs, and project work. You will interact with the public to encourage participation in planning and will be required to facilitate senior officers and build strong internal and external partnerships. As a Planner, you will undertake consultations, site visits, and investigations of planning contraventions, contribute to policy development, and engage in public inquiries and hearings where necessary. Reports directly to an assigned Lead Officer.

Skills

• Agile and networked organisational skills
• Strong commitment to professional planning
• Customer service excellence
• Proficiency in planning application processes
• Capability to monitor and enforce planning regulations
• Ability to prepare clear reports and policy documents
• Sound understanding of planning guidance and legislation
• Effective communication and negotiation skills
• Competency in using modern digital tools and practices