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Are you ready to play a key role in shaping one of the nation’s most ambitious infrastructure projects? Buckinghamshire is at the epicentre of the HS2 transformation, and we’re expanding our dynamic in-house HS2 Planning Team creating an exciting opportunity for a talented Principal Planner (Rail) to make a real difference. With the HS2 railway line’s construction in full swing across Buckinghamshire, there is a continual stream of planning consents to engage with, evaluate, and conclude. As part of the Infrastructure and Major Projects Service within the Planning, Growth, and Sustainability Directorate, our HS2 Planning Team fulfils critical statutory duties as a Qualifying Authority under Schedule 17 of the HS2 Act guiding submissions from initial discussions right through to final decisions. In this pivotal role, you’ll collaborate with expert colleagues, connect with external agencies and Council Members, and engage directly with HS2 Ltd and the main works contractors delivering the project. As a Principal Planner (Rail), you’ll be at the heart of decision-making helping to ensure that the design, delivery, and impacts of this landmark project are thoughtfully considered every step of the way.
Job Responsibility
Leading on Schedule 17 pre-applications negotiations to secure the best mitigation within the framework of the HS2 Act controls
Processing the range of formal HS2 applications received, Schedule 17, Schedule 16, and those submitted as per the Town and Country Planning Act and the Transport Works Act Order
To support the Planning (Rail) Team Leader in delivering a planning service that meets the Council’s statutory requirements as set out in Schedule 17 of the HS2 Act
Liaising and responding to planning consent related HS2 enquiries and clarifications that are received or directed to the HS2 Planning Team
Attending HS2 Members Panels, Community Forums, Cabinets and Council meetings, site visits when requested and participating at both informal and formal meetings
Guiding, supporting, and overseeing some of the work undertaken by other members of the team
Requirements
Broad expertise in planning legislation and policy
Hands-on experience as a planning officer, leading diverse teams and tackling complex proposals head-on
Comfortable working independently or thriving within collaborative groups
Excellent interpersonal skills for building strong relationships with professionals and stakeholders
Skilled communicator, both in writing and speech
Masterful time manager
adept at juggling demanding workloads, setting clear priorities and deadlines, and responding swiftly to change
Proven ability to take initiative, adapt quickly, and work skilled at analyzing challenges and offering evidence-based solutions
Track record of preparing detailed officer reports that address every aspect of a proposal, even with intricate or contentious issues
Solid background in EIA development
Advanced ICT know-how, especially in Microsoft Applications
Holds a degree (or equivalent) in planning
Previous success evaluating infrastructure proposals in development management
Possesses a full UK driving licence
Nice to have
Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) membership is a plus
What we offer
Discounted gym memberships
Travel discounts with Arriva
Discounts on various Cafés, restaurants, shops
Auto enrolment onto our generous Pension Scheme
Opportunity to gain membership to Costco
Health and well-being initiatives including an Employee Assistance Programme, Mental Health First Aiders and mindfulness workshops