Environmental Planning Consultant
Location: Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
Salary: £30,000-£40,000 per annum
Working Arrangements: Hybrid working, with remote working options available
About the Role
Our client is an environmental planning consultancy working extensively across England, supporting the development of Local Plans - the strategic blueprints that shape how towns, cities and rural areas evolve over the next 15 years.
Local Plans are far more than documents; they are instruments of change that influence climate action, housing delivery, infrastructure development, biodiversity protection, green infrastructure and community wellbeing.
As an Environmental Planning Consultant, you will support the preparation and review of Local Plans and environmental policies, helping clients navigate the complex planning reforms currently underway. This role offers a unique opportunity to be involved in placemaking at scale, working on projects that shape the future of communities across the country.
Based in Cheltenham, this position offers a salary of £30,000-£40,000, alongside flexible hybrid and remote working opportunities.
Responsibilities
Support the preparation, review and consultation stages of Local Plans and related environmental policies.
Assist with Sustainability Appraisals (SA) and Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEA) to ensure compliance and embed sustainability principles.
Conduct research, data collection and policy analysis to inform planning and environmental assessments.
Interpret and manage spatial data using GIS software, such as QGIS or ArcGIS, to support evidence bases and mapping requirements.
Prepare and help present reports, consultation materials and technical documents for clients, stakeholders and the public.
Liaise with local planning authorities, statutory consultees, developers and community groups as part of project delivery.
Maintain awareness of ongoing planning reforms, government housing targets, including the ambition to deliver 1.5 million homes over five years, and environmental legislation.
Participate in professional development activities and contribute to knowledge sharing within the team.Experience and Requirements
A degree or equivalent qualification in Town and Country Planning, Environmental Planning, Environmental Science or a related discipline.
Working towards or holding RTPI membership is desirable.
Competency in spatial interpretation and the use of GIS software, such as QGIS or ArcGIS.
An understanding of the UK planning system, particularly Local Plan preparation and environmental assessments.
Strong research, analytical and written communication skills.
Good organisational skills, with the ability to manage workloads and meet deadlines under supervision.
A team player with a proactive attitude and an eagerness to learn and contribute.Performance Expectations
Deliver accurate, well-researched and timely project support to enable successful Local Plan and environmental policy outcomes.
Demonstrate continuous improvement in professional skills and understanding of planning reforms and environmental best practice.
Foster positive relationships with clients, stakeholders and internal teams.
Support a collaborative and inclusive working environment that encourages innovation and shared success.Why Join?
Competitive salary: £30,000-£40,000 per annum.
Flexible working: Hybrid working arrangements with remote working options to support work-life balance.
Meaningful projects: Contribute to work that directly impacts climate resilience, housing delivery, biodiversity and sustainable development.
Supportive team: Join a friendly, collaborative team passionate about making a difference.
National project exposure: Work with a consultancy operating across England and contributing to the evolving landscape of planning reform.
Professional development: Build your expertise in environmental planning, sustainability assessments and Local Plan preparation.This is an excellent opportunity for an aspiring or experienced environmental planning professional to develop their career while contributing to sustainable communities and better environmental outcomes across England.
If interested send CV to (url removed)
