Planner

About Stratford-on-Avon District Council

Located in the picturesque Warwickshire region, Stratford-on-Avon District Council administers one of the UK's most scenic and historic areas centered on William Shakespeare's hometown. Serving a population of over 135,000 residents and attracting millions of tourists annually, the Council provides vital public services that enhance living, working, and visiting experiences within the District.

Position Overview

We seek a Planner to process and manage planning applications, appeals, pre-application enquiries, and associated matters across a diverse and geographically varied District. This role encompasses handling proposals relating to residential, commercial, and employment developments in both rural areas and market towns, including sites within the West Midlands Green Belt and Cotswolds National Landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Process and decide on all planning applications under the Town and Country Planning Acts and related legislation, under guidance from Team Leaders and the Planning Manager.
• Validate applications, conduct site visits, interpret policies and guidance professionally, and evaluate comments and consultations.
• Represent applications at planning and regulatory committee meetings.
• Provide thorough written pre-application advice to stakeholders.
• Participate in the planners' "Duty Officer" rota, including senior planners.
• Arrange and attend meetings to facilitate negotiation progress when appropriate.
• Respond to and negotiate on conditions applications with developers and approve associated decisions.
• Prepare written representations, appeal statements, and serve as a Council witness in informal hearings.
• Contribute continuously to delivering excellent service in line with current performance metrics.
• Adhere to political restrictions applicable under relevant legislation.
• Engage professionally with the public, requiring fluency in spoken English or equivalent proficiency.

Qualifications and Skills

• Comprehensive knowledge of planning legislation, guidance, and Local Planning Authority development management.
• Ability to swiftly interpret plans and drawings and produce clear, detailed technical reports.
• Strong collaboration skills to work effectively with colleagues and committee members.
• Commitment to enhancing design quality within development management.
• Degree or postgraduate qualification in planning or a related field.
• Membership or progress towards membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).

Benefits

• A minimum of 25 days paid annual leave plus Bank Holidays.
• Hybrid work options allowing up to 60% home working subject to role demands.
• Flexi-time scheme to support work-life balance.
• Health Cash Plan covering medical and dental costs.
• Eye test vouchers and gym membership discounts.
• Professional development support including training and one paid professional subscription fee.
• Participation in the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Free Will writing services, Employee Assistance Programme, and salary sacrifice options like Cycle to Work.
• Free town centre parking.

Additional Information

This role is politically restricted under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 and related legislation. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK as visa sponsorship is unavailable. The use of Artificial Intelligence tools to support applications is permitted provided all submissions are truthful, accurate, and drawn from personal experience. Any plagiarism or use of AI-generated content without proper attribution may lead to withdrawal of applications or disciplinary action.

Interviews will be conducted face to face to ensure the best experience for candidates and panel members.

Applications close at midnight on 14.09.2026, with interviews scheduled for the week of 21.09.2026.