Somerset Council
OR114846 – Senior Enforcement Officer
OR114846 – Senior Enforcement Officer at Somerset Council, based in King Square, Bridgwater. This is a permanent role.
- Pay
- Not given by the employer
- Hours and contract
- Permanent · On site
- Location
- King Square, Bridgwater
- Closing date
- Sector
- Local Government
Reference https://www.carringtonblakerecruitment.co.uk/?post_type=job_listing&p=17920
About the role
Main Purpose
To investigate and manage complex breaches of planning control, ensuring developments comply with planning legislation, permissions and policies. The role will handle enforcement cases, conduct site inspections, provide advice to stakeholders and represent the Council at appeals and legal proceedings.
Typical Day
- Investigate planning enforcement complaints and manage a varied caseload.
- Conduct site visits and inspections.
- Assess breaches of planning control and monitor compliance.
- Prepare and serve enforcement notices and legal documents.
- Provide advice to residents, developers and stakeholders.
- Prepare reports and recommendations for planning committees.
- Represent the Council at appeals, public inquiries and court proceedings.
- Maintain accurate enforcement records and case information.
- Work with internal departments and external agencies.
- Mentor and support junior planning enforcement staff.
Key Skills & Responsibilities
- Planning Enforcement & Investigation
- Planning Legislation & Policy
- Site Inspections & Compliance
- Enforcement Notices & Legal Processes
- Report Writing & Committee Presentations
- Negotiation & Conflict Resolution
- Caseload & Time Management
- Stakeholder Communication
- Appeals & Court Proceedings
- Mentoring & Team Support
Essential Requirements
- Proven experience in planning enforcement or a related planning role.
- Strong knowledge of planning legislation, including the Town and Country Planning Act.
- Experience conducting site visits and investigating planning breaches.
- Experience preparing and serving enforcement notices.
- Strong report-writing and communication skills.
- Ability to interpret and apply complex legislation.
- Experience managing a varied caseload independently.
- Strong negotiation and problem-solving skills.
- Degree in Town Planning, Urban Planning or a related subject, or equivalent experience.
- Commitment to continuous professional development.
- RTPI membership or relevant professional qualification is desirable.
Reference: https://www.carringtonblakerecruitment.co.uk/?post_type=job_listing&p=17920 · Posted 4 hours ago · Closes 29 Nov 2026 · Listed via Somerset Council
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