Planning Enforcement Officer

Grade H SCP 26 - 30, Salary £37,280 - £40,777

Sefton is a diverse Borough with a mix of urban, coastal and rural areas.  We are seeking a Planning Enforcement Officer to join our busy Planning team.

Do you have an eye for detail, a passion for protecting local environments, and the confidence to make a real difference in your community? We’re looking for a Planning Enforcement Officer to join our dynamic Planning Service and help ensure that development across our area takes place in line with planning laws and policies.

About the role

As a Planning Enforcement Officer, you’ll investigate alleged breaches of planning control — from unauthorised developments to changes of land use — and take appropriate action to resolve them. You’ll work closely with residents, developers, elected members, and other agencies to achieve positive outcomes that balance local needs with planning policy.

This is a varied, challenging, and rewarding role that offers opportunities to develop both technically and professionally.

Key responsibilities

Investigate reports of unauthorised development and breaches of planning control.

Conduct site visits and prepare clear, concise reports and recommendations.

Negotiate with landowners and developers to secure compliance or remedy breaches.

Prepare enforcement notices and provide evidence for appeals or legal proceedings where required.

Work collaboratively with planning colleagues and other council departments to deliver an effective enforcement service.

About you

You’ll bring:

Experience in planning enforcement, development management, or a related field (or the willingness to learn).

Strong investigative, negotiation, and communication skills.

A good understanding of planning legislation and procedures.

The ability to manage a varied caseload and make sound, evidence-based decisions.

A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for site visits.

Why join us?

Competitive salary and benefits package.

Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working.

Ongoing professional development

A friendly, collaborative team committed to high standards of service.

Join us and help shape the future of our communities by ensuring development happens the right way

Interview date: week commencing 12th January 2026

Equal Opportunities

Sefton Council strives to ensure that our workforce is inclusive and representative of our communities. A diverse workforce is important to us, our staff bring with them a wide range of experiences, views, ideas, and innovations, and we are committed to providing an environment that recognises, respects, and values everybody’s identity, where individual differences are strengths and where everyone can thrive and maximise their potential. We are always open to learning and growing as an organisation, and we welcome new ideas and initiatives that promote equality, diversity and inclusion.

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer; all candidates will receive equal treatment. Our decision to appoint will be based upon whether an individual’s skills, experience, qualifications, and abilities make them the most suitable candidate for the role.

GUARANTEED INTERVIEW SCHEME

Please note that all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for these jobs (as given in the Person Specification) and who want to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme will be invited to interview.

If you are currently in care or have previously been in care, we provide a guaranteed interview scheme for care experienced people if you meet the essential requirements for the role.