Planning Strategy Lead

Are you in planning strategy or infrastructure and seek an influential new senior role? Or are you currently in local government development management with strategic and political  skills and experience, and are looking for a fresh challenge? Join Dartford, the second fastest growing Borough in the country, and take the lead. 

We are looking to sustain our high growth and deliver our up-to-date Local Plan through new supporting policy and infrastructure, and maximising benefits from our multi-million pound CIL funding. You will have in-depth planning strategy and infrastructure planning expertise, through significant statutory Plan preparation experience, infrastructure policy work or suitable strategic public sector development management experience.

Dartford is the Kent Borough adjoining London on the River Thames. The area is both urban and rural, including Ebbsfleet Garden City and Bluewater shopping centre, but also marshland, heath, and Ancient Woodland. Dartford (alongside Arup) is the proud RTPI Silver Jubilee Cup award winner for the Lower Darent Riverside Strategy.

We are looking for an innovative and flexible thinker keen for a challenge in a positive and integrated Planning & Place division. Demonstrable experience of  policy-based  decisions on large scale infrastructure investment or developer contribution expenditure  prioritisation is required.  Substantial  knowledge of national planning policy / local plan  legislation and reform  is  necessary.  You will have strong quantitative, analytical and written  capabilities, a creative approach to problem solving and good  leadership and communication  attributes. You will be managing and working with an enthusiastic team, whilst reporting to and being supported by the Head of Planning Strategy.

We offer hybrid working arrangements which seek a balance of home and office-based working. Part-time working arrangements will be considered for the right candidate, please call if you wish to discuss your circumstances.

Conveniently located, the Borough’s connections are more than just the Dartford crossing and M25. Dartford rail station (adjacent to the Council offices) is just 11 minutes travel from  the Elizabeth Line, and has Thameslink  and direct links to London Charing Cross and Victoria. We have good buses including TfL  services and Fastrack rapid transit.

If you would like to speak about this post please contact Mark Aplin, Head of Planning Strategy on 01322 343202.