Principal Planning Officer

Role Purpose

Tower Hamlets is an exciting and fast changing location which includes places as diverse as the Tower of London World Heritage site, Whitechapel, Brick Lane, Isle of Dogs, Canary Wharf and the Olympic Legacy. We have the highest target for new homes and jobs in the capital, with numerous complex and strategic scale planning applications. There are over fifty conservation areas, hundreds of listed buildings and an extensive river frontage including Tower Bridge. You will not find a more interesting and varied place to develop your career. 

We are recruiting for highly talented, skilled and motivated Principal Planning Officers to join our fast-paced, high-performing collaborative Development Management Team.    

If you are passionate about delivering significant growth, sustainable development and achieving positive outcomes including contributing to the delivery of the Council’s own ambitious housing programme, we would love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

We are seeking 2 x Principal Planners (1 x permanent and 1 x fixed term 12 months maternity cover). You will act as the lead case officer for large-scale, major, and complex planning applications, managing the process from the pre-application stage through to decision-making, delivery, and the preparation and presentation of reports to Planning Committees. Responsibilities include overseeing all aspects of casework, handling planning appeals, and ensuring compliance with statutory, regulatory, and policy requirements. You will provide specialist planning advice and pre-application guidance to developers, agents, and stakeholders, as well as negotiate and manage Planning Performance Agreements for major and strategic developments, ensuring project milestones are met at both pre-application and application stages. In addition, you will negotiate Section 106 agreements to secure planning obligations that deliver community benefits and infrastructure. You will also promote and negotiate high-quality place-making and outcomes that align with the Council’s priorities, sustainability objectives, and design standards.

Requirements

The successful candidates will possess an in-depth understanding of legislation and planning policies governing Town and Country Planning. You will bring proven experience in Development Management, particularly in handling major and strategic schemes.  Exceptional communication and negotiation skills are essential, alongside strong project management expertise, coupled with excellent time management and organisational skills and attention to detail will be key to your success in this role.   

The successful candidates will hold a relevant post graduate level qualification that qualifies them for eligibility for professional membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute.

Additional Information

The Council offers competitive pay and conditions, with generous annual leave, flexible working arrangements, staff benefits, a modern workplace, travel card (Zone 2-3) and a supportive environment including training opportunities to develop your career. The Council office in Whitechapel provides a modern working environment and excellent transport links, including the new Elizabeth Line.

All applications should be made via our online application system, no CV’s or alternative forms of applications are accepted. Internal employees should apply via the council's Intranet. External applicants apply via the Council's website www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/careers  

For an informal discussion about the role, please do not hesitate to contact Nelupa Malik, Team Leader: [email protected]; Tel: 07512 449 255.

Closing Date:  5^th April 2026

Tower Hamlets is a truly unique borough at the heart of London – a place where history and innovation sit side by side. From the docks and markets that shaped the East End to the global business hub of Canary Wharf, we are proud to be one of the most dynamic, diverse, and ambitious communities in the UK. We are also one of the fastest growing and youngest boroughs in the country, offering unrivalled opportunities to make a real difference to people’s lives. Our residents are energetic, creative, and resilient, and our council is committed to delivering the best possible services and opportunities for them.

Our award-winning new Town Hall in Whitechapel provides a modern, flexible workplace for our staff, right at the heart of the borough and directly opposite Whitechapel Tube and Elizabeth line station. It is more than just a workplace – it’s a hub for collaboration, innovation and community, designed to bring out the best in our people.

As an employer, we put equality, diversity, and inclusion at the heart of everything we do. Our active Employee Network Groups celebrate and champion our workforce, helping to ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging. Guided by our TOWER values – Together, Open, Willing, Excellent and Respect – we are building a positive, inclusive culture where colleagues can thrive.

At Tower Hamlets Council, you’ll find exciting challenges, supportive colleagues, and the chance to shape one of London’s most important and vibrant places. If you’re looking for a role where you can see the impact of your work every day, then Tower Hamlets is the place for you.