Planning Enforcement Officer
Exmoor House, Dulverton, Somerset

The Company

Exmoor National Park Authority manages a unique and beautiful part of the country. Our vision is to ensure Exmoor National Park has a thriving living landscape and is a place where people can enjoy and benefit from Exmoor’s special qualities and sustainable communities. Our Planning staff play a key role in the achievement of this vision.

We are now looking for a Planning Enforcement Officer to join us on a full-time, permanent basis.

The Benefits

- Salary of £28,371 - £32,020 per annum
- Paid sickness leave
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- 29 days’ holiday per annum, plus Bank Holidays

This is an amazing opportunity for a solutions-focused individual with knowledge of planning law and associated legislation to step into a rewarding role with our dedicated organisation.

The built environment, individual buildings, villages and settlements are a vital part of what makes Exmoor unique. You’ll play a key role in monitoring development and investigating breaches, and through negotiation with site/homeowners find appropriate courses of action to remedy such breaches.

So, if you want to make a positive impact and advocate the natural beauty, landscape and communities of Exmoor, apply today!

The Role

As a Planning Enforcement Officer, you will support the delivery of our development management service that aims to conserve and enhance the natural and built environment of the National Park.

Specifically, you’ll investigate complaints relating to breaches of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 and Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisement) Regulations 1992.

Carrying out site inspections, you’ll gather evidence of breaches, monitor compliance with notices and determine if developments are being implemented in accordance with planning permission. You’ll also maintain accurate records of investigations and enforcement cases.

Additionally, you will:

- Prepare reports on unauthorised developments
- Prepare regular reports of complaints received and actions taken
- Identify options for correcting breaches
- Serve enforcement notices and court summons

About You

To be considered as a Planning Enforcement Officer, you will need:

- Experience of working with the public, private bodies and/or agencies
- Experience of court proceedings
- Previous experience using Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
- The ability to clearly convey complex information to a variety of audiences in both verbal and written form
- The ability to resolve complex and sometimes contentious issues, undertaking consultations and negotiations
- The ability to understand and interpret complex policies and conditions
- The ability to gather evidence and take statements in accordance with statutory regulations and codes of practice
- Knowledge of planning law and associated legislation
- Good negotiation skills
- IT proficiency
- A full, valid driving licence or the ability to travel to remote locations across the National Park