Planning - A day in the life of

A 'day in the life of' a planning officer in a Scottish local authority is varied and dynamic, blending office-based tasks with site visits and extensive public engagement. Here's a breakdown of what it typically looks like:

Morning:

• Reviewing Planning Applications: The day often starts with sifting through new and existing planning applications. This involves checking if all necessary documentation is submitted (validation), understanding the proposed development, and assessing it against the Development Plan for the area (which includes the National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) and the local development plan), as well as other relevant national and local policies and guidance.
• Responding to Enquiries: A significant portion of the morning might be spent responding to pre-application enquiries from developers, architects, and members of the public seeking advice on potential projects or planning regulations. This requires a thorough understanding of planning law and policy.
• Internal Meetings: There may be internal team meetings to discuss complex cases, share updates on policy changes, or coordinate with colleagues from other departments (e.g., environmental health, roads, legal).

Afternoon:

• Site Visits: A crucial part of the job involves conducting site visits. This could be to:
  • Assess the impact of a proposed development on the surrounding environment, infrastructure, and community.
  • Investigate potential breaches of planning control (unauthorised developments).
  • Monitor the progress of ongoing construction projects to ensure compliance with planning permissions.
  • Gather evidence for planning appeals.
• Report Writing: Planning officers spend a considerable amount of time writing detailed reports for planning applications. These reports summarise the proposal, evaluate it against relevant policies, consider any public comments, and provide a reasoned recommendation for approval, approval with conditions, or refusal. These reports can be for decision under delegated powers (by the officer themselves) or for presentation to a Planning Committee.
• Negotiation and Consultation: Planning officers frequently engage in negotiations with applicants to secure amendments to proposals that would make them acceptable. They also consult with various stakeholders, including statutory consultees (e.g., SEPA, Historic Environment Scotland), community councils, and local residents, taking their views into account.

Throughout the Day (Ongoing Tasks):

• Development Management: This is the core function, involving the assessment and determination of a wide range of planning applications, from minor householder alterations to major housing or commercial developments.
• Policy Work: Some planning officers specialise in developing and reviewing planning policies, contributing to the Local Development Plan and other strategic documents that guide future development.
• Enforcement: Investigating complaints about unauthorised development and taking appropriate action to resolve breaches of planning control is another key responsibility. This can range from informal resolutions to formal enforcement notices and even legal action.
• Public Engagement: Planning officers often interact with the public, explaining complex planning issues, addressing concerns, and facilitating community involvement in the planning process.
• Staying Up-to-Date: The planning system is constantly evolving with new legislation, national policies, and best practices. Planning officers must continuously update their knowledge and skills through training and professional development.
• Attending Committee Meetings/Appeals: For larger or more controversial applications, planning officers may present their reports and recommendations to the local authority's Planning Committee. They may also be required to prepare evidence and attend planning appeal hearings or public inquiries.
• Record Keeping and IT Systems: Meticulous record-keeping and efficient use of IT systems (such as e-planning portals and GIS mapping software) are essential for managing caseloads and ensuring compliance with regulations.

Key Skills and Qualities:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Negotiation and mediation abilities
• Attention to detail
• Ability to interpret complex legislation and policies
• Good organisational and time management skills
• Customer-focused approach
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• An understanding of design principles and environmental considerations

The work can be challenging, balancing competing interests and sometimes dealing with strong public opinions, but it's also incredibly rewarding, as planning officers play a crucial role in shaping the future of Scotland's places and communities.