Arun is undergoing a significant change with the adopted Local Plan seeking to secure the delivery of over 20,000 homes by 2031 as well as significant employment growth. We are commencing an update of the Local Plan and have just concluded public consultation on our Direction of Travel document, so this is an exciting time in Arun and any planner seeking a challenge or looking to make the next big step in their career will be provided with the necessary support and opportunity to develop professionally. These roles will play a critical role in progressing the preparation of a Local Plan working alongside elected members, senior staff and appointed specialist consultants in evidence preparation, policy formulation and consultation. The Team Leader will take the lead in driving the new Local Plan forward towards adoption and will work with a significant level of autonomy in what is a high-profile role within the authority.
We offer flexible working. We are currently working a hybrid arrangement of both home and office working, subject to the requirement to attend site visits, as well as Committee meetings and briefings held at the office. General arrangements are based on officers attending the office at least 2 days per week and we have a robust IT network and facilities to support home working.
Suitable candidates should be able to demonstrate knowledge of planning policy/design considerations particularly an understanding of strategic planning issues, how to interpret them simply and translate complex issues into development management policies. You will need the skills, drive, and commitment to lead a Team and deal with a complex and varied planning policy workload, together with excellent communication. You should also be proactive, delivery focused, innovative and highly adept in group working and problem solving. You should be good with people and strong at team working.
Arun continues to experience significant growth. It has one of the highest housing requirements of any non-metropolitan council in the country. It is at the very start of producing a new Local Plan and there are significant challenges to overcome to produce a deliverable and robust Plan. The Local Plan is one of the Council's most important strategies and is a highly visible area of the work. You will lead a team of officers alongside a significant external consultant resource to deliver the Plan engaging with other services, elected members, communities, developers, and neighbouring authorities.