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Please note that we do not accept CVs. We only accept online applications. Our applications can take up to 2hrs to complete but we have prepared some guidelines to help you with the application as it’s such an important part of the process.

https://www.elmbridge.gov.uk/blogs/2022/how-ace-local-authority-application-form

To apply use the "Apply Online" button below, which will take you to our Applicant Tracking System ('ATS') where, once you have applied, you can log on to your online account at any time to view the status of any of your applications. By using ATS, you can track the progress of your application(s), receive communications by email, select your own interview time online and see whether you have been made a conditional offer.

Planning Officer

Development Management, Planning and Environmental Health

Salary: £34,212 - £49,775 (Scale 22 – 38)

Closing date: Tuesday 1 September 2026, 9am

Interview date: w/c21 September 2026

What does it take to be a planner at Elmbridge?

Commitment? Determination? Pragmatism? Solution-focussed attitude?

We would suggest that it takes all of this and one other trait; we want our planners to be passionate about design.

That’s what makes planning services at Elmbridge different; we have talented, passionate people, determined to do their best work for Elmbridge, influencing and helping to shape Elmbridge.

In response to the increase in planning application fees, Elmbridge is creating additional posts within the team. Therefore, you will be joining a growing team.

If you want to be a planner and you have the motivation to undertake professional qualifications, we will support you in a day release course at University.

You will see the other essential criteria in the person specification, but it’s your approach to work that will be your main asset.

Whether you are a planning manager, officer or trainee you will understand that you have an important role to play in helping us to shape Elmbridge. You will be supporting our customers and helping them to understand the role good planning makes in shaping an area.

Elmbridge is one of the busiest local planning authorities in the country and sets very high standards for the delivery of planning decisions within Government targets. With land values that rival London and a population of 135,000, we will provide you with an interesting and challenging step in your career.

From April 2027, Elmbridge will become part of the new East Surrey Council. As we work towards that time, our focus remains firmly on delivering high quality services to our residents. We understand that this period of transition may bring uncertainty, particularly around future working arrangements such as office locations. Please be assured that we are committed to supporting all our employees throughout this process, prioritising wellbeing, continuous learning and professional development.

While we cannot predict exactly what lies beyond 2027, we can confidently say that your time at Elmbridge Borough Council will be both rewarding and enriching. You will gain valuable experience, benefit from extensive training opportunities and be involved in one of the most significant transformations in local government in the past 50 years.

About us

We know we ask a lot, but the good news is that we give a lot too.

• Learning and development:
  • We will support you on that journey by creating a bespoke learning and development plan for you.
  • You will meet people in the team who have completed Masters, been promoted within the team and have taken on other professional qualifications.

• Flexibility:
  • We know hybrid working is here to stay and we will discuss the right mix of home and office for you.

• Wellbeing:
  • When you thrive Elmbridge thrives, which is why we have developed a strong and varied wellbeing programme for our employees.

• The package:
  • Not forgetting our excellent pension and ‘Thrive’ package of employee benefits and discounts with various local businesses. There is also free employee parking.

What else?

We encourage you to read more on us and if you have any queries please give us a call.

Here are some reading options to help you with your decision making:

• https://www.elmbridge.gov.uk/jobs-work-experience-and-volunteering
• Our LinkedIn page

If you would like to talk to us about the role, please give Jenny our Team Leader in Development Management a call on 01372 474796.

What are you waiting for?