Policy Officer – Urban Design

Guildford Borough Council
£29,820 – £42,988 (Grades 5 - 6)

Contract: Permanent
Hours of work: 37 hours per week

An exciting opportunity has arisen within Guildford Borough Council’s Design and Conservation Team in the role of Policy Officer (Urban Design) to provide proactive specialist urban design advice and to play a key role in shaping future built development within the Borough.

It is an unprecedented time for Guildford and an interesting time to be joining the authority. The recent adoption of our ambitious local plan means that the Borough is set to embark on a period of significant growth over the coming decade, including the delivery of near to 9,000 homes across 5 newly planned neighbourhoods and a major regeneration opportunity within the historic town centre of Guildford.

To enable the delivery of these ambitions, a highly experienced and qualified Urban Designer is being sought to lead and champion high quality contextual urban design and help shape sustainable development and growth in the Borough.

Working within the Council’s Strategic Service, the role will involve a stimulating balance of casework and strategic guidance, and will include:

  • Leading in placemaking and urban design across the borough, including newly planned neighbourhoods, housing projects, regeneration areas and town centre projects
  • Providing proactive design advice on major PPAs and planning applications, as well as working with developers and their representatives on all matters relating to urban design and the built form
  • Providing advice on proposals with significant impacts on the public realm and on environmental improvement schemes
  • Evaluating existing guidance and producing up to date guidance and development
  • Contributing to ongoing policy work

Applicants should have a recognised degree/post graduate qualification in urban design, planning or architecture as well as proven professional experience within the urban design field role. Excellent verbal, written and illustrative communication, effective time management and a sound knowledge and proactive use of national design policy, guidance and legislation are all essential. You will also have an ability to build a rapport and working relationship with stakeholders, elected members, consultees, colleagues and local communities.

Membership of a recognised professional body (RIBA, RTPI, RICS) would also be desirable as would experience of working within a local planning authority or similar agency.

The role is located at our attractive riverside offices, close to Guildford Town Centre, a short walk from the station. As a Council we offer many employee benefits including a career average earnings pension scheme, childcare vouchers, generous annual leave and a good work life balance.

If you would like to discuss this opportunity, please contact Louise Blaxall, Policy Officer (Design & Conservation) at louise.blaxall@guildford.gov.uk

Apply online

Closing Date: Monday 26 April (12:00pm)

Provisional interview date: week commencing 10 May 2021

Please note that we do not accept CV’s in place of an application form as we require the same range of information from all our candidates.

Policy Officer – Urban Design Job Listing Urban Design Group
Closing Date
Monday 26 April 2021