Principal Planning Officer - Strategic Planning
Please apply online via the link provided.
Closing date: 9 November 2025
Interview date: 20 November 2025
Please apply via Winchester City Council's website.
Could you help shape the future of the Winchester district, working as a key member of our dynamic and innovative Strategic Planning Policy team?
Our emerging Local Plan, ‘Your Place Your Plan’, has recently received positive from an independent inspector, indicating that it’s likely to be found sound following a six-week public consultation on the Main Modifications.
We’re excited to offer a full-time opportunity for a talented Principal Planning Officer to help us build on our significant achievements so far – and, as part of this varied and rewarding role, you’ll contribute significantly to the adoption of the current Local Plan and the development of the next one.
We’re lucky enough to work in one of the most beautiful districts in the country. Winchester itself is a beautiful, historic city, and the wider district is filled with stunning rural countryside (including part of the South Downs national park) and bustling market towns.
With its heritage and its stunning landscape, our district is a complex setting for planning policy-makers but, with an innovative and strategic approach, the opportunities are significant.
If you’re an enthusiastic and motivated professional who thrives in a collaborative environment and embraces challenges, this could be the role for you. You should be proactive, capable of working independently, and committed to developing and implementing innovative planning solutions.
The ideal candidate will possess relevant qualifications and experience in producing sound Local Plans. You should be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, managing competing priorities, and demonstrating leadership at a senior level. Proficiency with digital planning tools and a passion for advancing the digital agenda are essential.
If you’re a logical, innovative thinker with excellent attention to detail and a strong team ethic, we would love to hear from you.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Employer-paid health cash plan
- Cycle to Work and Car Benefit salary sacrifice schemes
- 25 days of annual leave
- Flexible working arrangements
- Up to 13 days of additional flexi leave per year (subject to operational requirements)
- Option to purchase up to 5 additional days of annual leave
- Free parking at the park and ride and a free bus pass
- Membership in the Local Government Pension Scheme
- Discounted membership at two district leisure centres
- Confidential Employee Advice and Support Programme
- Retail and shopping discounts
- Season Ticket Loans
- Excellent working environment
- Support for continuous professional development
For further information, please contact Adrian Fox, Strategic Planning Manager on 01962 848278 for an informal discussion.
Salary range
- £47,181 - £52,413 per year