Planning Compliance Officer

Esher, United Kingdom | Posted on 27/07/2026

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Job Description

Planning Compliance Officer – 3 Month Contract

Contract: 3 Month Contract

Summary

We are seeking an experienced Planning Compliance Officer to join our Development Management team on a 3-month contract. This role is crucial in ensuring that developments comply with approved plans and planning conditions. You will be responsible for investigating breaches of planning control, conducting site inspections, gathering evidence, and supporting enforcement actions. This position offers a unique opportunity to work within a high-performing Local Authority planning service, engaging with residents, developers, and stakeholders to maintain compliance and support proactive enforcement projects.

Responsibilities

Planning Enforcement & Compliance

• Investigate alleged breaches of planning control.
• Assess compliance with approved planning permissions and conditions.
• Research planning histories and supporting documentation.
• Determine appropriate actions to secure compliance.

Site Inspections & Investigations

• Conduct site visits and inspections throughout the borough.
• Accurately measure and record developments.
• Gather photographic and documentary evidence.
• Interview relevant parties as needed.
• Monitor ongoing compliance of developments.

Enforcement Action

• Negotiate compliance with planning controls.
• Prepare enforcement reports and recommendations.
• Draft and issue enforcement-related documentation.
• Assist with notices and legal documentation.
• Support planning enforcement prosecutions and legal proceedings.

Appeals & Legal Support

• Prepare statements, case files, and evidence.
• Support appeals, hearings, public inquiries, and court proceedings.
• Present evidence at hearings and inquiries.
• Liaise with Legal Services and other departments.
• Respond to enquiries from residents, councillors, developers, and other stakeholders.
• Provide professional advice and updates on enforcement investigations.
• Deliver excellent customer service while managing sensitive issues.

Proactive Enforcement Projects

• Support proactive planning enforcement initiatives.
• Participate in borough-wide compliance projects.
• Improve public awareness and engagement in planning enforcement.
• Support wider Planning Services compliance activities.

Case Management & Administration

• Maintain accurate case records and investigation files.
• Use planning and enforcement systems effectively.
• Ensure documentation is complete and auditable.
• Manage workloads to meet deadlines and performance targets.

Requirements

Requirements:

• Previous experience in Planning Enforcement, Planning Compliance, Development Management, or a related role.
• Experience investigating breaches of planning control and conducting site visits.
• Ability to interpret and apply planning legislation and government guidance.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Strong record-keeping and case management abilities.
• Experience using computerized systems and databases.
• Ability to work independently and manage a varied caseload.
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• Degree or Diploma in Town Planning, Town & Country Planning, or a related discipline.
• RTPI membership or eligibility for membership.
• Experience preparing evidence for appeals, hearings, inquiries, and court proceedings.
• Experience interpreting technical plans and drawings.
• Access to a vehicle for borough-wide site visits.
• Based at Civic Centre, Esher, Surrey.
• Combination of office-based duties and site inspections.
• Regular travel throughout the borough.
• Occasional evening and weekend site visits may be required.
• Attendance at hearings, public inquiries, committee meetings, and court proceedings as needed.

What's on Offer?

• 3 Month Contract
• Bi-weekly Pay
• Opportunity to work within a busy Development Management and Planning Enforcement team.
• Varied workload involving investigations, site inspections, enforcement, compliance, and stakeholder engagement.
• Excellent opportunity for experienced Planning Compliance or Planning Enforcement professionals.

Applications are particularly welcomed from candidates with experience as a Planning Compliance Officer, Planning Enforcement Officer, Planning Officer, Development Management Officer, Enforcement Officer, Town Planning Officer, Planning Investigator, or Planning Case Officer.

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