Planning Strategy Lead

Dartford is the second fastest growing Borough in the country, and is seeking a senior planning leader to help sustain its high growth and deliver an up-to-date Local Plan through new supporting policy and infrastructure. The role offers the chance to influence policy-based decisions on large-scale infrastructure investment and to maximise benefits from the Borough’s multi-million pound CIL funding.

Dartford is the Kent Borough adjoining London on the River Thames — a mix of urban and rural, including Ebbsfleet Garden City and Bluewater shopping centre, alongside marshland, heath and Ancient Woodland. Dartford (with Arup) is the RTPI Silver Jubilee Cup award winner for the Lower Darent Riverside Strategy.

Reporting to and supported by the Head of Planning Strategy, the postholder will:

• Lead the delivery of an up-to-date Local Plan and supporting policy framework
• Drive infrastructure planning and prioritisation of developer contribution / CIL expenditure
• Manage and work with an enthusiastic team within an integrated Planning & Place division
• Engage politically and strategically with members, partners and stakeholders to advance the Borough’s growth ambitions

Dartford Borough Council is looking for candidates who can demonstrate:

• In-depth planning strategy and infrastructure planning expertise, gained through significant statutory Plan preparation experience, infrastructure policy work, or suitable strategic public sector development management experience
• Demonstrable experience of policy-based decisions on large-scale infrastructure investment or developer contribution expenditure prioritisation
• Substantial knowledge of national planning policy and local plan legislation and reform
• Strong quantitative, analytical and written capabilities, with a creative approach to problem solving
• Good leadership and communication attributes, and the political and strategic skills to operate at a senior level
• An innovative and flexible mindset, keen for a challenge in a positive and integrated Planning & Place division

Applications are made via the Dartford Borough Council recruitment portal. Please complete the application form in full — CVs alone are not accepted.

The salary on appointment is £65,100 per annum, increasing to £68,895 per annum following 12 months’ satisfactory performance. The Council offers hybrid working arrangements, and will consider part-time working for the right candidate.

If you would like an informal conversation about the role, please contact Mark Aplin, Head of Planning Strategy on 01322 343202.

Closing date: 28 June 2026 at 23:59.