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Posted 21 July, 2026

Planning Officer

Venn Group
London, ENG, GB Full Time

Job Description

Major Projects Officer

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Based in London

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Length: 6 months with possible extension

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IR35 status: Inside

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We are looking for an experienced Major Projects Officer to join the Development Management team of a local authority as the lead officer for the borough's largest and most complex planning applications.

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This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious planning professional to take ownership of a high-profile caseload; from major applications and Planning Performance Agreements (PPAs) through to complex pre-application submissions, screening and scoping opinions.

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Key Responsibilities:

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  • Case managing complex major planning applications from validation through to recommendation, including managing the GLA Stage 1 & Stage 2 process
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  • Leading the delivery of commitments under bespoke Planning Performance Agreements
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  • Coordinating complex pre-application submissions, including internal and external project meetings
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  • Preparing professional reports and recommendations for the DM management team and Planning Committee
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  • Preparing appeal statements and acting as the Council's lead witness at Hearings and Public Inquiries
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  • Handling post-decision matters such as discharge of conditions, re-submissions (NMAs, s73s) and complaints
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  • Contributing to service improvement and keeping up to date with planning legislation and case law
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Skills, experience and knowledge:

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  • A degree or Masters in Town & Country Planning (or a related discipline such as geography, construction, architecture or design)
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  • 5+ years' significant experience as a Development Control Planning Officer, with particular emphasis on major planning applications
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  • Sound knowledge of planning legislation and case law
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  • Excellent IT skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Google Docs, GIS and planning software)
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  • An understanding of the role of elected members and CMT in the planning process
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  • A full UK driving licence and the ability to undertake site visits
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Desirable:

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  • Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), or working towards it
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  • Experience signing off cases
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  • Experience presenting major applications at Planning Committee
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