Graduate Town Planner

Location: Bristol, United Kingdom

About the role

Our client is looking for a Graduate Town Planner to join an established and growing planning team in Bristol. The team is one of the larger planning teams in the city and provides a full range of planning services to private and public sector clients, working both independently and alongside colleagues across the wider property consultancy. The role reports to the Head of Planning.

You will gain experience across a diverse portfolio of projects throughout the UK, covering residential, commercial, retail, mixed-use regeneration, energy, community and leisure developments. Working alongside experienced planning professionals, you will build your technical knowledge and practical skills and lay a strong foundation for your career in town planning.

The successful candidate will be curious, organised and keen to learn. You will be given varied, meaningful work from the outset, with the chance to develop client relationships and contribute to the team’s growth as your confidence builds.

Main responsibilities

• Support the delivery of a varied portfolio of planning projects, including planning advice, applications and appeals
• Research and analyse planning policy, legislation and local development frameworks
• Assist in preparing planning appraisals, strategy reports and development assessments
• Prepare and submit planning applications through the Planning Portal
• Monitor applications after submission, liaising with local authorities and assisting with negotiations and meetings
• Support the preparation and submission of planning appeals
• Contribute to representations on emerging planning policy and local plans
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and external stakeholders to deliver high-quality planning services
• Develop client relationships and take part in relevant networking opportunities to support business growth
• Maintain high professional standards, ensuring work is accurate, timely and meets client expectations

Requirements

• A relevant degree in Town Planning or a related discipline
• A good understanding of the UK planning system and an interest in planning policy and development
• Strong research, analytical and report-writing skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to engage with colleagues and external stakeholders
• Good organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to prioritise competing deadlines
• A proactive, motivated approach, with the ability to work independently and contribute effectively within a team
• A positive, professional attitude and a willingness to learn and develop
• Competency in Microsoft Office and a willingness to develop proficiency in relevant planning software
• An interest in working towards professional accreditation with the RTPI

The offer

• A role based in the Bristol office, with occasional travel to other offices as business requirements dictate
• Exposure to a broad range of projects and clients across multiple sectors
• A strong platform for professional development, learning from established planning professionals in a collaborative consultancy environment
• Salary and benefits to be confirmed with candidates

If you are a planning graduate looking to start or build your career in a growing Bristol team, this role offers breadth, support and room to develop. Apply below.