Principal Town Planner

  • Roc Search Europe Limited
  • Crawley, Sussex
  • Sep 17, 2025
Contractor Real Estate

Job Description

I'm currently supporting Sussex Council who are looking for an interim Principal Planner to join their Major Development team. This is a great opportunity to take on a high-profile caseload of major applications while working on a hybrid basis.
The role:

  • Managing a caseload of major planning applications through to decision.
  • Preparing officer reports and recommendations for committee and under delegated powers.
  • Handling planning appeals and representing the council at inquiries where needed.
  • Advising councillors, colleagues, and the public on planning matters.
  • Keeping up to date with planning law, policy, and case law.
  • Providing support to junior officers and deputising for senior management where required.

Key requirements:

  • RTPI membership and a postgraduate qualification in planning.
  • Strong experience of major planning applications at senior level (local authority background preferred).
  • Excellent knowledge of planning law, policy, and case law.
  • Strong report writing, communication, and political awareness skills.
  • Full UK driving licence (site visits required).

Details:

  • Rate: 30- 40ph (via agency PAYE or umbrella, IR35 status to be confirmed with the client)
  • Location: Haywards Heath (hybrid - min. 1 day per week in office + committees/site visits)
  • Start: ASAP
  • Duration: Up to 12 months
  • Hours: 37 per week, 9-5 (flexible)

If you're interested, or know someone in your network who might be, please send me an updated CV and we can arrange a call to discuss further.