Assistant planning volunteer (Central Bedfordshire)

If you're concerned about the increasing development in your local area, on greenbelt and in our countryside then you could make a difference by joining our planning team

Planning volunteers engage with the local planning system and campaign on local planning issues to influence how Bedfordshire's countryside and rural communities are developed.

This includes working with local communities, town and parish councils and local action groups to advise and support them when their local countryside and green spaces are under threat. We help them respond to planning applications and appeals to ensure they have the best chance of protecting their local environment.

As an assistant planning volunteer you will work alongside an experienced planning volunteer who will act as your mentor and will provide you with training and support to develop in your role. You'll gain valuable skills and experience in the planning process for a range of different developments.

Assistant planning volunteer

Planning Trustee

Community

By volunteering with us you'll be helping to find positive solutions for the issues facing the countryside and the environment. By applying your skills and experience you can make a real difference and be a central part of a friendly and passionate charity.

As a planning support volunteer, you'll be helping us to investigate planning applications so we can influence their outcome for the benefit of the countryside.

We're ideally looking for volunteers with an interest in the planning system and environmental and countryside issues. Please look at our other opportunities too to find one that's just right for you.

• Investigating planning applications with an impact on the countryside for example by viewing proposals online or at the local planning offices
• Occasionally visiting proposed development sites to look at plans and record details
• Providing your CPRE group with relevant local and site information, sharing information with other volunteers and attending meetings where relevant
• Liaising with parish and district councils and other conservation bodies
• Liaising National CPRE teams to contribute to consultations and policy development

• An interest in the countryside and environmental issues
• Previous experience in the planning sector and knowledge of the planning system is desirable but not essential
• An eye for detail and an interest in investigative work
• A willingness to visit the local planning office and proposed development sites
• Happy carrying out tasks independently and as part of a team
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Access to a computer and the internet at home and be comfortable using them
• Be able to commit to volunteering regularly to suit your availability with occasional attendance at meetings

• Use your skills and experience to contribute to the success of our charity and make a positive difference to the countryside
• Meet like-minded people and enjoy being part of a team
• Enhance your CV by developing new skills and gaining valuable experience
• We'll support you to develop in your volunteering role and provide you with relevant training
• We'll give you a reference for your future work or volunteering
• The opportunity to attend a volunteer induction day at CPRE's national office in London or a regional centre
• We provide out-of-pocket travel expenses