Full job descriptionPlanning Policy Officer (Temporary Contract)
*Hourly Rate: £45-55
*Location: Stockport
*Contract Type: Temporary Full-time / Part-time (up to 37 hours per week)
*Hybrid Working: 2 days in the office, remainder remote
Join the team at Stockport Council and contribute to the strategic planning objectives by providing specialist planning policy advice. This role involves supporting the delivery of statutory planning functions, including the preparation and monitoring of the Local Plan and associated policy documents. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in preparing Infrastructure Delivery Plans (IDPs) and ensuring compliance with both national and local planning legislation.
Day-to-day of the role:
*Contribute to the preparation, monitoring, and review of the Council’s planning policies, ensuring all statutory requirements are met.
*Provide professional advice on planning policy matters to colleagues, elected members, developers, and the public.
*Represent the Council’s spatial planning interests in statutory plan-making processes, including at Examination in Public.
*Monitor and interpret changes in planning legislation, regulations, and guidance at national and regional levels.
*Support Development Management by providing policy input on major planning applications and pre-application discussions.
*Assist in project support for the Local Plan.
*Prepare reports, briefing notes, and responses to consultations on planning policy issues.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
*Minimum 4-6 years of experience in planning policy within a local authority or consultancy environment.
*Strong understanding of UK planning legislation, policy frameworks, and Local Plan processes.
*Ability to analyse complex planning issues and provide clear, evidence-based advice.
*Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
*Strong stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills.
*Extensive experience in preparing Infrastructure Delivery Plans (IDPs) is ideal.
*Desirable: Experience of Green Belt and open space policy issues, familiarity with Examination in Public procedures, and ability to work independently and manage competing priorities.
Benefits:
*Access to a dedicated consultant for ongoing support.
*Secure, user-friendly online system for timesheet management.
*Self-service portal for holiday requests, payslips, and employment documents.
*Access to free training, discount clubs, healthcare options, and reward schemes.
*Inclusion in pension schemes, paid holiday arrangements, and maternity benefits.
*Opportunities to work with a range of leading UK employers across the public and private sectors.
To apply for this Planning Policy Officer position, please submit your CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this position.