Environmental Health / Protection Officer

Role Purpose

Tower Hamlets is a fascinating borough, a multi-cultural community steeped in history. The contrasts and challenges in Environmental Protection are vast. The Environmental Protection Team works with other departments in the Council, Planning, Licensing, Arts and Events, Health and Housing, Local residents and external contractors to control excessive noise and vibration within the Borough. The Team are responsible for the Assessment of complex acoustic reports on behalf of Planning and providing expert comments to planning, based on current legislation and the Tower Hamlets local Plan. The analysis and agreement of Control of Pollution Act (COPA)1974 section 61 applications and works dispensations. Statutory noise nuisance assessments and sound level meter data analysis using specialist software and field measurements. Compilation of detailed and complex responses to Environmental Information Regulations requests, Freedom of Information requests and Ombudsman enquires with associated cases. The team also follow up on public requests for service. We are able to offer a range of career opportunities for individuals that are able demonstrate enthusiasm, effectiveness and determination. The Team is based within the Environmental Health and Trading Standards Service and is able to draw on resources and expertise across the Service. We are able to offer a 35 hour week with flexible working, structured training opportunities (CPD), excellent salaries an additional car user allowance/travel allowance, advisory and enforcement work and a minimum of 6 weeks paid leave a year. You will act as a statutory consultee and advisor to other council teams such as Planning, Building Control, Licensing and Highways & Engineering on noise and vibration, and liaising with external partners and attend meetings on environmental protection issues, as appropriate. good understanding of all relevant planning legislation in relation to noise and good practice, including recent guidance from WHO, IOA, ANC and Defra NPSE, (Environmental Protection Act 1990, Control of Pollution Act 1974) and standards (BS 5228, 4142 and 8233), as well as the holder of a noise specific qualification e.g. MSC/Diploma in Noise Control and Acoustics, this is an essential requirement.

Key Responsibilities

You will be working in a Team dealing with diverse Noise and nuisance issues seeking intervention strategies to ensure compliance with Environmental Health legislation and improving noise levels within the Borough. Attending court, preparation of prosecution files and giving evidence as required; you will also participate in PACE interviews.

One of the roles will be mainly dedicated to reviewing planning applications and reviewing s61 applications. You will be expected to be self-motivated and appreciate the Council's wider agenda on issues that impact the local environment. You will be expected to be self-motivated and appreciate the Council's wider agenda on issues that impact the local environment.

Requirements

You will be required to demonstrate recent experience in providing comments on large scale Planning applications; recent experience in leading complex noise/pollution investigations including detailed site measurements, analysis and interpretation of acoustic reports; detailed and current knowledge of Case Law precedents for statutory, public nuisance and Licensing controls; good understanding of all relevant legislation and good practice, including knowledge of recent guidance from The revised National Planning Policy Framework British Standards Institute, WHO, IOA, ANC and Defra. Those applicants with substantive years of local authority enforcement experience or holding a relevant Diploma or degree in acoustics will start at the higher grade.

Application Details

This post is open to the following types of applicants: Internal/ External/ Agency

If this role is available to Internal employees only, this will include agency workers but does not include independent contractors or Skills Match trainees

All applications should be made via our online application system, no CV’s or alternative forms of applications are accepted. Internal employees should apply via the council's Intranet. External applicants apply via the Council's website www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/careers

Benefits

Tower Hamlets is a truly unique borough at the heart of London – a place where history and innovation sit side by side. From the docks and markets that shaped the East End to the global business hub of Canary Wharf, we are proud to be one of the most dynamic, diverse, and ambitious communities in the UK. We are also one of the fastest growing and youngest boroughs in the country, offering unrivalled opportunities to make a real difference to people’s lives. Our residents are energetic, creative, and resilient, and our council is committed to delivering the best possible services and opportunities for them.

Our award-winning new Town Hall in Whitechapel provides a modern, flexible workplace for our staff, right at the heart of the borough and directly opposite Whitechapel Tube and Elizabeth line station. It is more than just a workplace – it’s a hub for collaboration, innovation and community, designed to bring out the best in our people.

As an employer, we put equality, diversity, and inclusion at the heart of everything we do. Our active Employee Network Groups celebrate and champion our workforce, helping to ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging. Guided by our TOWER values – Together, Open, Willing, Excellent and Respect – we are building a positive, inclusive culture where colleagues can thrive.

At Tower Hamlets Council, you’ll find exciting challenges, supportive colleagues, and the chance to shape one of London’s most important and vibrant places. If you’re looking for a role where you can see the impact of your work every day, then Tower Hamlets is the place for you.