Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) Officer

Permanent

Ref: TL101

An exciting opportunity with Dacorum Borough Council to lead the delivery of Suitable Alternative Nature Greenspace (SANG) on identified sites within the borough and a pipeline of more in the future. Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspaces form part of the Chiltern Beechwoods Special Area of Conservation Mitigation Strategy. It is one of the measures the Council and its partner authorities have introduced to help protect and reduce recreational pressure on Ashridge Commons and Woods Site of Special Scientific Interest.

As SANG Officer you will be responsible for implementing the Council SANG Management Plans at Bunkers Park and Chipperfield Common but in time at other sites across the borough. At SANG sites you will support the site management including practical habitat management, leading groups of volunteers, supervising contractors and working with colleagues in our Clean Safe & Green and Trees & Woodlands services. You will also be a point of contact for residents and local stakeholders such as Town and Parish Councils.

For new sites you will collaborate on developing management proposals and producing management plans. Through this you will have the opportunity to support the consultation with stakeholders, colleagues in Place (Strategic Planning and Regeneration), and work with statutory partners such as Natural England.

The successful applicant will have proven knowledge in an environmental/ecological discipline as well as knowledge and experience in site management and managing volunteer groups. Ideally, they will have an understanding of preparing and implementing management plans, stakeholder engagement and project management.

For an informal conversation about this role please contact Steven Werrell, Nature Recovery and Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) Delivery Manager, at steven.werrell@dacorum.gov.uk

Applicants must have a driving licence that is valid in the UK and use of a vehicle.

A basic check will be undertaken with the Disclosure and Barring Service to ensure that the successful candidate has no relevant convictions.

Interviews Date(s): week commencing 10th August 2026

Information for applicants on Local Government Reorganisation – May 2026

What is Local Government Reorganisation?

The Council is going through a major change as part of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and devolution. This means that the district and borough councils in Hertfordshire will be replaced by a smaller number of new unitary councils.

The aim is to make local government simpler and more efficient, improve services for residents, and bring decision-making closer to the communities we serve.

What this means for you

If you join Dacorum Borough Council between now and 31 March 2028, you will move to a new organisation on 1 April 2028. Your role will transfer to the new authority, but the way you work and who you report to may change.

While this may be different from what you are used to, it is also a rare and exciting opportunity to join Dacorum at a time of real change.

You will have the chance to help shape the future of local services and be part of building something new.

The new unitary councils will create opportunities for innovation, growth, and better public services. They will offer a more joined-up and forward-looking working environment for employees.

We are committed to supporting our staff and continuing to deliver high-quality services for residents throughout this change. Together, we are building a better future.