Tonbridge and Malling are going through change, and this is an exciting time to join the planning team. We have a new Head of Planning and Planning Policy Manager and are at the early stages of developing our new Local Plan which will go out to consultation in the autumn of this year. Our track record in planning and development has delivered a progressive approach to growth and economic investment, balanced with preserving the heritage and natural quality of the Borough. We are currently experiencing significant interest in investment across the Borough which is resulting in a range of planning applications being submitted for our determination.

The Role:

We are looking to appoint to the role of Planning Officer, in the Development Management team.

The Council receives a broad variety of proposals across the Borough, with wide ranging opportunities for development, along with many high-level constraints providing interesting challenges for decision making.

We need you to determine a range of planning applications for development types of varying complexity across the Borough. You will also be required to provide excellent pre-application advice to applicants, developers and architects and provide professional advice to all customers and elected Members.

We need you to assist applicants in their submissions and negotiate effectively with them, whilst liaising productively with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders. You should be astute, thorough and able to fit into a well-established, busy and friendly team. You will have strong skills in drafting well focussed reports and be able to work to short deadlines and respond to urgent changes in circumstances.

Working for Tonbridge and Malling Council you’ll have easy access from London by train and have all that Kent can offer set in stunning countryside. You’ll also have the opportunity to develop your skills and experience within an organisation that prides itself on supporting its staff. We encourage staff to undertake vocational and technical training. In addition to learning & development, we also offer many flexible working opportunities, including job share, flexi time, compressed hours and of course home working.

What we are looking for:

You should possess enthusiasm, be well motivated and have excellent communication skills. You should possess a relevant first degree and ideally should have completed post-graduation studies for qualification for membership of the RTPI (or a suitable equivalent level of education), have a sound experience of working within a busy development management team and be keen to learn and able to adapt to changing demands and situations. A full driving licence is essential.

For an informal discussion about this role please contact Tim Hickling, Development Manager by emailing tim.hickling@tmbc.gov.uk (Direct candidates only, strictly no agencies please)