The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
Planning Policy
Principal Planning Policy Officer
Grade I: £50,407.50 - £55,755.50 per annum
Full-time, permanent, agile working is supported
About Us:
Cherwell District Council, based in Banbury, North Oxfordshire, is an ambitious and forward-thinking local authority committed to delivering high-quality planning services that support sustainable growth, protect our environment, and create thriving places for people, communities and businesses.
As one of the fastest-growing areas in the country, Cherwell faces both exciting opportunities and complex challenges. From major strategic developments and regeneration projects to the delivery of sustainable communities, planning plays a central role in shaping the district's future.
We're looking for an experienced and motivated planning professional to join our highly regarded Planning Policy Team and play a leading role in delivering our ambitious planning agenda.
About The Role:
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to one of the Council's most important strategic priorities.
As Principal Planning Policy Officer, you will lead on key areas of policy development and play a major role in shaping the district's planning framework for years to come. Working as part of a collaborative and supportive team, you will help develop innovative and evidence-based planning policies that support sustainable growth and high-quality place-making.
You will:
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Lead the preparation, review and implementation of the Local Plan and supporting planning policy documents.
- Take ownership of significant policy workstreams, preparing policy responses and drafting Local Plan content.
- Project manage complex planning policy projects from inception through to adoption.
- Lead policy development for strategic growth locations including Banbury, Bicester, Heyford Park and rural settlements.
- Commission, manage and interpret technical evidence to support policy development and decision-making.
- Provide professional planning policy advice to senior officers, elected Members, neighbourhood planning groups, developers and partner organisations.
- Represent the Council at examinations, hearings, public meetings, regional working groups and cross-boundary planning discussions.
- Lead on monitoring, data analysis and reporting to inform future policy development.
- Support and mentor junior members of the Planning Policy Team.
- Contribute to service improvement and the continued success of the Council's planning service.
About You:
We're looking for someone who combines planning expertise with strong communication, organisational and relationship-building skills.
You may already be working at Principal Officer level, or you may be an experienced planning professional looking to take the next step in your career.
You will bring:
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Significant experience in planning policy, strategic planning or plan-making, gained within local government, consultancy or a related environment.
- A relevant planning qualification and membership of, or eligibility for membership of, the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
- Strong analytical and project management skills, with the ability to manage complex projects and competing priorities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to turn technical evidence into clear and effective planning policy.
- Experience of working collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders and building positive professional relationships.
- Political awareness, sound judgement and a commitment to delivering positive planning outcomes.
- A proactive, innovative and solution-focused approach to problem-solving.
- A passion for sustainable development, placemaking and creating successful communities.
Why Join Us?
This is a rare opportunity to play a significant role in shaping the future of one of the country's most dynamic districts.
In return, we offer:
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The opportunity to influence major strategic planning decisions and help shape communities for future generations.
- A supportive, experienced and collaborative team environment.
- Interesting and varied work on nationally significant planning issues.
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
- A competitive salary and attractive local government benefits package.
We are committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.
The Benefits:
The Council is an equal opportunities employer. You’ll be part of a progressive, values-led council that embraces innovation and collaboration. In return, Cherwell offer a competitive package and a supportive culture that invests in your professional growth and wellbeing, including:
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A generous annual leave entitlement of 27 days (plus bank holidays
- Opportunity to join the Local Government Pension Scheme (Including generous Employer Contribution and the ability to transfer your private pension into the scheme)
- EV Salary sacrifice scheme
- Cycle to work salary sacrifice scheme
- Annual Flu Vaccination voucher and £25 eye test reimbursement
- Incremental pay award (awarded annually in April after one years’ service)
- Town centre office close to the station, canal and all amenities
