Principal Planner

Contract Type: Permanent

Contract Hours: 37 Hours

Salary: NJC Grade H3 SCP 36 - 40 £47,181 - £51,356

Closing Date: 22nd May 2026 at 12 Noon

Shape the future of Blackpool! 

If you are looking for a fresh challenge, if you want a unique opportunity to play a leading role in shaping the future of the nation’s favourite seaside destination then this could be the job for you.

Blackpool Council is seeking an experienced and motivated Principal Planner (Planning Policy) to take a leading role in the preparation and delivery of planning policy that underpins the borough’s regeneration and long-term sustainability. Working under the guidance of the Head of Planning -  Strategy and Transport Policy, you will lead on key aspects of plan-making, evidence development and policy advice.

The Role

You will lead on the preparation and review of the new Blackpool Local Plan, future Supplementary Plans and supporting strategies and evidence. This is a senior, hands-on role involving the management of complex evidence, policy development, stakeholder engagement and the presentation of evidence at examination.

You will provide specialist planning policy advice on major and significant development proposals, manage and support junior staff, and play a key role in shaping high quality, sustainable development across the borough.

Why Blackpool?

Blackpool offers a distinctive planning environment.  As a major seaside resort, the borough faces unique challenges and opportunities including tourism-led development, economic diversification, town centre and inner area renewal, housing delivery, heritage protection and coastal change -  a dynamic experience well beyond that of a typical local authority.

Career Development Opportunities

This role offers an excellent opportunity to further develop your leadership, technical and strategic planning skills. You will gain experience across the full plan-making process, working on complex issues and helping to shape the borough’s long-term growth.

About You

You will hold a degree in Planning (or related discipline) and be RTPI chartered, with substantial experience in planning policy and Local Plan preparation. You will have strong analytical, report writing and communication skills, with the ability to manage complex workloads, influence stakeholders and provide clear professional advice.

Why Join Blackpool Council?

You will be part of a committed and supportive team, where your expertise is valued and your professional development is actively encouraged.

Join us and help shape Blackpool’s future.

If you would like to discuss this exciting opportunity in more detail, please contact:

Helen Del Piano

Head of Planning - Strategy and Transport Policy

helen.delpiano@blackpool.gov.uk

to view the Job Description.

Please click here to see the benefits of working for Blackpool Council.

Are you a Blackpool resident aged between 16-24? Would you benefit from some free guidance on producing a quality application for job vacancies such as this one? Blackpool Council?s Youth Hub - The Platform, has highly skilled Employment Advisers that can support you with demonstrating how you can evidence you meet the Essential and Desirable criteria requirements on a Job Description.