Finding the right job is key, but also take the time to consider the lifestyle and leisure here in beautiful Mid Sussex.  

Bustling towns bursting with restaurants, eateries and coffee shops; picturesque villages full of charm and romance; and easy access to the seaside for some R+R; London for great days out and the South Downs for some of the most amazing walks. 

Still need more reasons to think about finding that perfect job here in Mid Sussex? We are close to Gatwick Airport and on the trainline to London and Brighton, have superb private and state schools on your doorstep, and an abundance of National Trust gardens for that well-deserved weekend re-charge. 

As an organisation, we are busy investing in Organisational Development and our People Strategy. We are a financially sound organisation with a significant track record in attracting investment and delivering complex and exciting schemes and projects.   

Can you help us to shape the District for the years to come? 

These are truly exciting times at Mid Sussex. Mid Sussex have ambitious targets to deliver a minimum of 16,390 new homes by 2031 as set out in our District Plan.  To achieve this, the District will experience substantial growth.  Our Planning Enforcement Team is therefore looking for an enthusiastic, forward thinking Planning Officer to assist in the delivery of an efficient and pro-active planning enforcement service to support this growth, as well as protecting the District from harmful development. 

This is a rare opportunity to be involved in the shaping of the District.  We are looking for an energetic, driven and self-motivated planning officer.  You will be expected to undertake investigations in relation to alleged breaches of planning control, enforce the Council’s planning decisions and determine related planning applications.  You will also provide pre-application advice and be responsible for appeals work to defend the Council’s decisions. 

Working under the supervision of the Planning Enforcement Team Leader and Senior Planning Officer within the team, you will manage a wide-ranging caseload of investigations and planning applications.  You will be a strong team player with a flexible approach to your work and, as an excellent communicator, will be responsible for ensuring that all stakeholders are kept up to date in the progress of your investigations and applications using your tact and diplomacy when required.  Previous experience of dealing with planning applications is necessary but experience in investigative work would be a bonus.  Central to this role is a good knowledge of the planning system and law.   

We are a friendly and welcoming organisation, who enjoy working and learning together. If you bring enthusiasm and an ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines, we want to hear from you.  We also offer flexible and agile working arrangements, subsidised gym membership for you and your family and a generous pension scheme. 

Possession of a full driving licence is a pre-requisite together with the use of your own car for use on Council business. 

If you would like an informal chat, please contact Beth Howland-Smith on 01444 477363. 

Job Description 

Follow the link to see the job profile and apply for the role of Planning Officer (Enforcement). 

Close Date: 15th December 2023 

Interview Dates: During w/c 8th January 2024