Job Summary
The Urban Planner will support both the Planning and Acquisition teams by providing strong technical planning expertise, conducting full-spectrum site appraisals, and managing planning risks. This role requires a planner with a strong architectural foundation, the ability to evaluate sites comprehensively, and confidence in handling stakeholders and external clients. The ideal candidate is technically capable, adaptable, fast-learning, and able to take ownership across multiple phases of development and service-offering work.
Key Responsibilities
1. Site Appraisal & Acquisition
- Conduct full planning, policy, technical, commercial, and legal viability assessments of potential sites.
- Review zoning regulations, planning history, environmental constraints, heritage factors, and infrastructure considerations.
- Evaluate development potential and identify risks, constraints, and opportunities that may affect acquisition strategy or development outcomes.
- Recommend planning-led phasing and mitigation strategies to de-risk proposals and align with policy requirements.
- Support the Acquisition team by providing clear, evidence-based planning insights during early-stage site evaluation.
2. Planning Application Support
- Work closely with Design Architects and the Planning Team to ensure schemes are policy-compliant, technically robust, and positioned for approval.
- Prepare and support planning submissions such as Planning Statements, DAS, feasibility reports, and supporting documentation.
- Review design proposals for compliance with planning policies, zoning laws, and environmental regulations, advising on early adjustments.
- Confidently handle stakeholder engagement with planning officers, neighbours, and consultees throughout the application process.
3. Service Offering & External Client Handling
- Communicate directly with external clients to understand project objectives, provide planning guidance, and support service-offering deliverables.
- Conduct planning appraisals, feasibility reviews, and risk assessments for client projects.
- Coordinate with external consultants (e.g., ecologists, surveyors, transport specialists) to gather information required for both internal and client planning work.
- Maintain strong, professional communication to guide clients through constraints, risks, and planning strategy.
Requirements
- Strong Architecture background is required.
- Bachelor’s degree in Architecture is preferred; Town Planning, Urban Design, Geography, or related fields are acceptable if backed by strong architectural experience.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in planning, development, or related practice.
- Strong understanding of UK planning regulations, zoning laws, and development policies.
- Preferred: experience in feasibility studies, planning appraisals, development assessments, or acquisition support.
- Advantageous software skills: CAD, GIS, property databases, and planning tools.
Benefits
- SSS, PHILHEATH & PAGIBIG
- Paid Leaves up to 25 days annually
- Work Equipment Subsidy
- HMO Coverage
- Rewards and Perks
- Performance Bonus
