Senior Planner/Enforcement Officer

Role Purpose 
The Senior Planning Enforcement Officer at Somerset Council plays a crucial role responsible for undertaking; coordinating, responding and prioritising enforcement and compliance activities within the Development Management directorate. This position is responsible for ensuring compliance with planning regulations and addressing breaches of planning control for the more complex cases across Somerset. The role involves investigating complaints, conducting site visits, negotiating, and taking appropriate enforcement actions to rectify unauthorized and unlawful developments. The officer will work closely with other departments, stakeholders, members and the public to provide guidance on planning matters and ensure that development activities align with local and national planning policies. Additionally, the role requires preparing detailed reports, witness statements and representing the council in appeals and court proceedings, ensuring maintenance of accurate records of enforcement actions. The Senior Planning Enforcement Officer will also mentor junior staff and contribute to the continuous improvement of the council’s planning enforcement processes.

Responsibilities 

• Investigate complaints regarding breaches of planning control.
• Conduct site visits to assess compliance with planning permissions.
• Prepare and serve enforcement notices and other legal documents.
• Provide advice and guidance to the public, developers, and other stakeholders on planning enforcement matters.
• Maintain accurate records of enforcement actions and investigations.
• Prepare detailed reports and recommendations for planning committees.
• Represent the council at planning appeals, public inquiries, and court proceedings.
• Collaborate with other departments and external agencies to resolve planning issues.
• Monitor development sites to ensure compliance with planning conditions.
• Mentor and support junior planning enforcement staff.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of planning enforcement policies and procedures.

Ensure that all enforcement actions comply with relevant legislation and council policies.

Requirements 

• Compre ensive understanding of planning legislation and enforcement procedures
• Knowledge of local and national planning policies
• Familiarity with the Town and Country Planning Act
• Knowledge of data protection and confidentiality requirement

Contract 

• Initial 3-to-6-month ongoing contract with the opportunity to extend 
• PAYE via Umbrella 
• Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm (4 days based onsite and 1 day working from home)