Vacancy: Senior Planning Officer

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£40,691- £49,087 pa 

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Strategic Planning Team at Spelthorne Borough Council. The team is responsible for preparing a new Local Plan, leading engagement on the Heathrow Expansion project for Spelthorne, and playing an active role in the development of the Surrey Strategic Development Strategy (SDS).

In addition to the strong emphasis within the evolving planning system on a climate led approach to plan making, there are also significant climate and environmental challenges associated with Heathrow Expansion. We are therefore seeking an experienced and motivated team player with a proven track record in developing and implementing policy and initiatives to join the Strategic Planning Team.

The team is also responsible for strategic infrastructure projects, cross-boundary engagement, and a range of other planning policy matters affecting the Borough. This role offers a challenging but rewarding opportunity for a candidate looking to advance their career and broaden their experience.

Spelthorne is located in North Surrey, bordering London, and faces a wide range of planning issues, including the expansion of Heathrow Airport, high levels of housing need (including affordable housing), pressure on the Green Belt, flood risk, a diverse mix of employment uses, and the regeneration of the Borough’s key town centre, Staines-upon-Thames. The role will involve a broad range of responsibilities, including Local Plan preparation, leading on specific topic studies, policy formulation, and representing the Council at external meetings. The successful candidate will be expected to make an immediate and meaningful contribution to the new Local Plan and wider strategic priorities.

The successful candidate will need to have a flexible approach to work and have excellent problem solving and communication skills with a good knowledge of the Local Plan system and relevant legislation.

This post is identified as a hybrid post supporting both office and home working in line with Spelthorne Borough Council’s policy. The post holder will be required to attend the office in line with a rota and any service requirements.

The ability to converse at ease with customers and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for customer facing posts.  These posts fall within the scope of the Code of Practice on English language requirement for public sector workers.  The Council, therefore, has a statutory duty under Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016 to ensure that post holders have a command of spoken English sufficient for the effective performance of the job requirements. If you have any queries or would like to discuss this further, please contact Human Resources.

For more information on this position, please contact Laura Richardson, Strategic Planning and Projects Manager on 01784 448594 or email l.richardson@spelthorne.gov.uk.

In return we can offer excellent conditions of service with a benefits package that includes flexible working hours, working from home opportunities, pension scheme, free parking and at least 23 days’ paid leave per year.

Closing date: Friday 4 September 2026 (noon)

Interview: Early to mid-September 2026 (flexible)