Average Principal Planner salary in the UK

Senior / Principal PlannerLocation: Knutsford Working Pattern: HybridSalary: £50,000 - £60,000 plus benefits Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a specialist countryside planning consultancy in Cheshire with the appointment of a Senior / Principal Planner. This consultancy is recognised for delivering high-quality, well-reasoned planning advice underpinned by strong practical understanding and professional judgement. The Opportunity The Senior / Principal Planner will work across a diverse portfolio of countryside and rural planning projects, including: Rural diversification and farm business developmentsEstate planning and long-term land strategiesPlanning appeals, certificates and enforcement mattersComplex countryside planning challengesResidential developments of up to 100 dwellingsCommercial greenfield developments of up to 25 acres The consultancy places clear emphasis on quality over volume, focusing on meaningful outcomes that support clients, rural businesses and communities. The Role The Senior / Principal Planner will take ownership of projects from initial enquiry through to determination, with responsibilities including: Leading planning projects end-to-endDeveloping clear, robust planning strategiesExplaining complex planning issues in a practical and accessible wayPreparing high-quality planning applications and supporting documentsManaging discussions with planning officers and external consultantsWorking directly with clients on matters of personal and commercial importanceContributing to a collaborative team structure that supports quality and wellbeing About You This role is suited to a Senior / Principal Planner who demonstrates: Strong professional judgement and decision-making abilityClear written and verbal communication skillsEmotional intelligence and client-focused thinkingConfidence in taking responsibility for workA practical, grounded approach to planning A purely rural background is not essential. MRTPI, RICS or equivalent experience is desirable but not mandatory where capability and professional maturity can be demonstrated. What's on Offer Competitive salary and benefits packageHybrid working and flexibilityHigh levels of autonomy with structured supportA varied and engaging workloadLong-term progression opportunities for the right Senior / Principal Planner Interested? The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates as soon as possible. If you meet the criteria above, please contact Josh Jones at Penguin Recruitment on or email .

Principal PlannerLocation: Nottingham Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be working with a well established and respected planning and design consultancy based in Nottingham. They are known for delivering innovative, high quality projects across the UK, and their office is now seeking a Principal Planner to join their senior team. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a collaborative, high profile environment where planners work alongside urban designers, architects, and major clients to help shape sustainable, meaningful places. The Benefits Competitive salary tailored to experience Flexible/hybrid working arrangements Excellent professional development support, including RTPI CPD Opportunities to lead nationally significant and complex projects Inclusive and supportive team culture Clear progression pathway within a well-regarded consultancy The RoleAs a Principal Planner, you will take a leadership role in delivering strategic and complex planning projects across sectors such as residential, commercial, regeneration, infrastructure, and mixed-use developments. You will manage client relationships, guide multidisciplinary teams, and influence projects from inception to delivery. Your responsibilities will include: Leading, managing, and securing major planning projects Preparing, coordinating, and submitting complex planning applications Providing high-level planning advice, strategies, and policy guidance Preparing planning statements, supporting documents, and proofs of evidence Engaging with senior clients, local authorities, and stakeholders Mentoring and developing senior and junior team members Driving best practice and contributing to the strategic growth of the Nottingham office About YouWe're looking for a senior planning professional who brings: MRTPI status Significant experience in planning consultancy, local authority, or client-side roles Proven track record delivering large-scale and complex development projects Excellent report writing, project management, and leadership skills Confidence in managing client relationships and influencing stakeholders Strategic thinking, proactive approach, and passion for high-quality placemaking This is a fantastic opportunity to join a respected planning consultancy where your expertise, leadership, and career ambitions will be fully supported. If you're interested in this Principal Planner role, please contact Joel Bland at Penguin Recruitment.

Job Title: Senior / Principal / Associate Town Planner Location: Nottingham | Hybrid Working (2-3 days in office) Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a highly regarded, growing planning consultancy in Nottingham as they look to appoint Senior, Principal or Associate level Planners as part of an ambitious expansion plan. This is an excellent opportunity to join a dynamic and forward-thinking team, working on a wide variety of projects ranging from urban regeneration schemes to large-scale residential and mixed-use developments across the UK. You will collaborate closely with clients, stakeholders and multidisciplinary teams to deliver successful planning outcomes. Our client is seeking motivated, energetic planners who are keen to progress their careers within a supportive and empowering environment. What's on offer: Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits packagePrivate medical insurance and payment of relevant professional subscriptionsA culture built on trust, empowerment and professional developmentExposure to a diverse portfolio of projects, including major residential and mixed-use urban extensionsClear progression opportunities aligned with company growth Key Responsibilities: Leading and supporting the development and delivery of planning strategies to promote sustainable growthManaging planning applications, appeals and consultations in line with policy and legislationUndertaking site appraisals, feasibility studies and impact assessmentsEngaging with local authorities, communities, businesses and key stakeholdersProviding expert planning advice to clients and internal teamsPreparing Planning Statements, Planning Appraisals and Statements of CaseKeeping up to date with legislative changes, policy updates and emerging planning trends About You: Previous experience in a planning role (consultancy, local authority or development background)A relevant planning qualification (or working towards one)RTPI membership or working towards chartershipStrong understanding of the UK planning system and processesExcellent written skills with strong attention to detailConfident communicator with a professional and approachable mannerStrong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing prioritiesProactive, enthusiastic and a collaborative team player Agile Working & Additional Information: Our client embraces agile working and offers a flexible, hybrid approach, recognising that productivity and success are not defined by location. This role is East Midlands based, with a preference for 2-3 days per week in the Nottingham office. The wider business operates from multiple hubs across the UK, offering long-term flexibility and progression opportunities. Interested?If you're looking for a new challenge and want to be part of a forward-thinking planning consultancy, please contact Josh Jones at Penguin Recruitment on or email