Hart District Council Principal Planning Officer

Principal Planner - Development Management

Salary: £44,697 - £47,800
Location: Fleet, Hampshire
Full-time (part-time considered) Permanent Hybrid Working

Roles protected from changes under devolution / LGR

Hart District Council is entering an exciting period of change and increasing development pressures. Located in North East Hampshire, Hart is a prosperous and rapidly growing district with high demand for new development. Positioned just beyond the London Green Belt and along the M3 corridor, the area benefits from a vibrant economy, excellent transport links, and a strong sense of community.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced planning professional to join a forward-thinking and proactive council that welcomes good quality development and is committed to shaping the future of its towns, villages, and natural environment. Hart is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the UK, offering beautiful countryside, excellent schools, and first-rate leisure opportunities.

Why consider Hart District Council?

• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Flexible working hours with up to two flexi days per month
• Hybrid working policy (currently 60% homeworking)
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Support for CPD and professional subscriptions
• Free staff parking
• Confidential employee advice and support programme
• Promotion of a healthy work/life balance
• A genuinely supportive and collaborative team environment

What you will bring

Hart is seeking a motivated and knowledgeable planning professional with significant post-qualification experience in development management. The ideal candidate will have:

• A degree in Planning or equivalent, and RTPI membership
• Strong understanding of planning legislation, policy, and best practice
• Proven ability to manage major and complex planning applications
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and project management skills
• A proactive and customer-focused approach
• Experience mentoring or coaching junior staff is desirable
• Political awareness and the ability to work collaboratively across teams and with stakeholders

This role offers the chance to lead on high-profile developments, contribute to strategic decision-making, and help shape the future of the district. You'll also support and guide junior colleagues, playing a key role in the development of the wider team.

How to Apply

For more information, please call Daniel Baker on , or apply via this advert.