Principle Planning Officer - #188461

Location: Barrow in Furness

Contract Type: Permanent

About this opportunity

Would you like to live and work in one of the most beautiful parts of the country?

Westmorland and Furness Council is a new unitary Council combining Barrow-in-Furness, Eden and South Lakeland districts. The new Council planning area is adjacent to two national parks, including the stunning Lake District National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as western parts of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The national parks offer a rich tapestry of lakes, mountains and countryside, which offer extensive outdoor opportunities, whilst the towns and villages brim with local character. With friendly communities, low crime rate, cultural attractions and stunning locations Westmorland and Furness Council makes an attractive proposition for one and all.

Who we are looking for…

Westmorland and Furness Council is seeking to recruit a Principal Planning Officer (Development Management). The successful applicant will be responsible for managing a team of planners in the Development Management area. You will be responsible for signing off delegated reports, attending and supporting planning committees as well as managing a case load of more complex planning applications. You will need experience of dealing with appeals and public inquiries. You will also need to have strong experience in successfully leading and motivating teams of planning professionals and will need to be a qualified planner and Chartered member of the RTPI.

As a Principal Planning Officer they will be responsible for advising on the more complex planning cases and working with the Area Manager to ensure the efficient and effective management of the planning process.

The successful candidate will need to possess a relevant degree or qualification and have previous relevant experience. They will require good IT skills and have the ability to research case law and good practice in the further development of this area of work.

What can we offer you!

Working at Westmorland and Furness Council you will receive a variety of benefits, including a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance and other various perks and discounts schemes. For more information about life at Westmorland and Furness Council and what we can offer you, please visit our Careers site. Our benefits | Careers (westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk)

Application and Interview information

Closing date: 28th June 2026

Interview date: w/c 6th July 2026

We are currently operating both in-person and virtual interviews. Interview details such as venue/timings will be shared with successful candidates, following the shortlisting process. If you have any concerns or adjustments are needed, we are happy to discuss this with you.