Graduate Planner (Development Management)

TfL, GLA or OPDC

2d•$40,814•Hybrid

About The Position

The Oxford Street Development Corporation is establishing a new planning service for one of Central London’s most significant and high-profile locations. This is an exciting opportunity for an early-career planner to help support the delivery of a new, proactive and design-led Local Planning Authority. As Graduate Planning Officer / Planning Officer, you will support the Development Management team in handling planning applications, pre-application enquiries, planning research, site analysis, consultation processes and related casework. You will work alongside experienced planners and specialists, helping to ensure that proposals are assessed clearly, fairly and efficiently. The OSDC area includes a nationally important commercial, cultural, retail and historic environment, with significant opportunities for regeneration, public realm improvement, inclusive design, heritage enhancement and high-quality development. This role will give you the opportunity to develop your planning skills in a fast-moving and high-profile environment, while contributing to outcomes that will shape the future of Oxford Street and its surrounding area. Working as part of the Development Management team, you will support senior officers, contribute to high-quality reports and advice, liaise with applicants and stakeholders, and help the planning service operate effectively from day one.

Requirements

Degree-level qualification in planning, urban studies, geography, architecture, regeneration, built environment or another relevant discipline.
An interest in development management, urban regeneration, design quality, public realm, heritage, sustainability and place shaping.
Some understanding of the planning system, including planning applications, national planning policy, the London Plan, local planning policy and the role of a Local Planning Authority.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear, accurate and well-structured advice.
Good analytical and organisational skills, with the ability to manage tasks, deadlines and competing priorities.
Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, applicants, consultees and stakeholders, while demonstrating good judgement, curiosity and a commitment to public service.

Responsibilities

Support the processing and assessment of planning applications, pre-application enquiries and related development management casework.
Assist with site visits, planning history checks, policy research, consultation reviews and case analysis.
Prepare draft reports, correspondence, briefing notes, consultation summaries and planning assessments under supervision.
Help assess proposals against relevant planning policy, design, heritage, sustainability, accessibility, transport, amenity and public realm considerations.
Liaise with applicants, agents, residents, businesses, statutory consultees, local authorities and internal colleagues in a professional and helpful way.
Support Planning Committee preparation, including report checking, presentation material, briefing notes and follow-up actions.
Help maintain accurate records, update case management systems, monitor deadlines and support good customer service.
Contribute to wider service improvement, templates, guidance, procedures and the preparation of the OSDC Local Plan where required.