3 Month Contract with A Local Authority

To lead and manage the preparation, implementation, and monitoring of the Local Development Plan and associated planning policy work. The postholder will manage a small team and ensure the effective delivery of all stages of development plan preparation in accordance with statutory requirements and the Council’s Delivery Agreement. The role also provides expert planning policy advice, supports strategic site development, and represents the Council at regional and national planning forums and public examinations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation, delivery, implementation, and monitoring of the Local Development Plan, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and the Delivery Agreement.
  
• Manage a small team responsible for development planning and policy work, providing leadership, direction, and performance management.
  
• Prepare, monitor, and update Supplementary Planning Guidance documents and development briefs for key and strategic sites.
  
• Undertake research and analysis of development trends, including population change, migration, housing need, and land use.
  
• Provide expert planning policy advice to internal services, external stakeholders, and elected members.
  
• Represent the Council at regional and national planning meetings, forums, and strategic planning discussions.
  
• Prepare evidence and represent the Council at Development Plan examinations, hearings, and public inquiries.
  
• Ensure planning policies and development plans align with strategic objectives and deliver sustainable development outcomes.
  
• Manage and interpret complex planning data to inform policy development and decision-making.
  
• Work collaboratively with councillors, stakeholders, and partner organisations to support effective plan delivery.
  
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, safeguarding responsibilities, and Council procedures.
  
• Promote equality, diversity, and a citizen-focused approach in all planning activities.
  
• Contribute to service improvement, innovation, and the continuous development of planning policy processes.
  

Requirements

• Degree (or equivalent) in Town Planning or a related discipline.
  
• Eligibility for full membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
  
• Proven experience in development planning or a related planning policy environment.
  
• Experience working within a public sector planning service.
  
• Strong understanding of the development plan process (including statutory planning frameworks).
  
• Ability to manage and supervise staff or reporting officers effectively.
  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience producing formal planning documents.
  
• Ability to work independently, manage deadlines, and handle complex workloads.
  
• Strong analytical and research skills, particularly in relation to demographic and land use data.
  
• Proficiency in ICT and planning-related systems.
  
• Ability to represent the organisation in formal settings, including hearings and public examinations.
  
• Commitment to equality, diversity, safeguarding, and professional development.
  
• (Desirable) Master’s degree in Planning or commitment to completing one.
  
• (Essential) Full driving licence and access to a vehicle.
  

Additional Information

• Location: Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council (Fully Remote)
  
• Hours per Week: 37 hours per week in local government roles
  
• Pay: Bi-Weekly Payments