Senior Planning Enforcement Officer

<p> </p> </p> <p><strong>Senior Planning Enforcement Officer</strong></p> <p><em>Main Purpose of the Role</em></p> <p>To lead the investigation and resolution of complex breaches of planning control, securing compliance with planning legislation and Client policies through negotiation and, where necessary, formal enforcement action.</p> <p><em>Key Responsibilities</em></p> <ul> <li>Manage a high-volume and complex caseload of planning enforcement investigations, including unauthorised development, changes of use, and breaches of conditions.</li> <li>Carry out site inspections, gather evidence, and assess expediency in line with national planning guidance.</li> <li>Seek resolution through negotiation wherever possible, providing clear advice to developers, residents, and stakeholders.</li> <li>Prepare and serve enforcement notices, legal documentation, and correspondence to secure compliance.</li> <li>Prepare reports, statements, and evidence for appeals, hearings, and court proceedings, representing the Client where required.</li> <li>Work collaboratively with Legal Services and internal teams to deliver effective enforcement outcomes.</li> <li>Support service improvement and help mentor less experienced officers in managing enforcement cases (where applicable).</li> </ul> <p><em>Skills &amp; Experience</em></p> <ul> <li>Extensive experience (10 years) in planning enforcement within a local authority or similar environment.</li> <li>Strong working knowledge of UK planning legislation, enforcement powers, and procedures.</li> <li>Proven ability to manage complex cases and make sound, proportionate decisions.</li> <li>Excellent communication, negotiation, and report-writing skills.</li> <li>Confident representing cases at appeal or in court.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Working Pattern:</strong><br /> Monday to Friday, 37 hours per week<br /> Expected 2 days per week in the office</p> <p> </p> <p>The reference number is:                  000B 1CF7 / 1</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>If</strong><strong> you are interested in the role please apply on our website with your CV, alternatively you can email your CV to Beth</strong><strong>@essentialemploy.co.uk</strong><strong> quoting the reference number.</strong></p> <p><strong>Essential Employment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy. Essential Employment is an Equal Opportunities Employer.</strong></p> <p><strong>All our roles may be subject to pre-employment checks including references so please be prepared.</strong></p> <p><strong>You can also follow us at Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn or via our website </strong></p>