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Planning Policy Officer

Help us shape the future of the New Forest area!

New Forest District Council is planning positively for the future and investing in its planning service to ensure it delivers high quality development in one of the most attractive and environmentally sensitive areas of the country.

Are you enthusiastic, capable, and ambitious and looking to start or further a career in town planning? This is a great time to join our friendly planning policy team, responsible for preparing the Local Plan and other guidance. You will help to identify and bring forward the development our communities need in the right way and in the right places, whilst also protecting our sensitive environment, the character and beauty of our area and future proofing for climate change.

Got a knack for digital communications and geographic information systems?

Help us engage more effectively with councillors and the diverse communities they represent and we serve. Guided by our GIS and Graphics coordinator you will use and develop your digital and GIS skills and creativity to collate and analyse data and to communicate complex ideas and information simply. This will involve the use of mapping software and other software tools and digital media.

Qualifications and skills -

You will either have an RTPI accredited degree in planning, or you will have a degree in a relevant built or natural environment discipline and be able to demonstrate a keen interest in, and awareness of, the planning system and local plan-making.

Recent planning policy experience and RTPI eligibility is desirable but not essential, the right skills and attitude are more important. Students in a relevant subject expecting to graduate this year are welcome to apply.

A qualification and/or skills in and experience of using GIS software is desirable.

What’s in it for you?

• 24/25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, rising to at least 29 after five years’ continuous local government service
• Hybrid working and flexible hours - office attendance is required on agreed days, with optional home working for the rest of the week
• Local Government Pension scheme
• On-site parking
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Wide range of employee discounts at high street retailers, including supermarkets, stores, and restaurants
• Cycle to Work scheme which could save you around 40% on cycles and accessories

About us:

As one of the largest districts in the country, with 6 towns and a close relationship with neighbouring conurbations and the New Forest National Park Authority, the New Forest provides a supportive environment in which everyone who works for us can help drive our aims.

We believe that all our employees make a valuable contribution to the work of the council and that’s why we encourage a trusting and open culture where each employee is supported and respected equally, where ideas are actively sought and self-development promoted.

We also recognise the value of a highly motivated and engaged workforce. We actively promote a good work/life balance and provide the IT support needed to enable effective home working.

To discuss this opportunity, please contact [email protected], Policy Team Leader (Tel. no. 023 8028 5475) , or [email protected], Service Manager Policy and Infrastructure: (Tel no. 023 8028 5987) or you can find out lots more by visiting Working for us - New Forest District Council

Closing date: Midnight 5th March 2023

Interview Date: 13th March 2023