Job department
Planning
Planning helps shape where new homes can be built and how developments fit into their surroundings.
Planning teams assess policies, prepare proposals and work with local authorities, communities and specialists throughout the planning process. If you are interested in places, public policy, research and balancing different needs, this career area offers the chance to influence future communities.
What does the Planning team do?
Planning professionals investigate whether proposed housing sites are suitable in planning terms and help navigate the route to permission. Their work can involve interpreting national and local policy, reviewing site constraints, preparing planning statements and coordinating studies on transport, ecology, heritage or flood risk. They communicate with local planning authorities, consultants, colleagues and communities, and may help manage planning conditions after permission is granted. Planning teams work closely with Land, which identifies and secures sites, and Technical & Design, which develops the proposals. Planning permission is a formal decision, not something the team can promise.
Is a career in Planning right for you?
Planning may appeal to you if you enjoy geography, policy, problem-solving or thinking about how communities change. The work combines research and written analysis with discussions involving people who may have different priorities. Clear communication, careful judgement and an ability to understand complex rules are useful. You may also enjoy balancing housing needs with environmental and local considerations.
How can you get started in Planning?
A common route is a planning-related degree followed by practical experience; accredited study is relevant for those seeking professional recognition. Apprenticeships and alternative pathways may also be available. Graduates from related subjects may need further specialist study depending on their goal. Check the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) for current professional routes and explore graduate careers for employer opportunities.
Career progression in Planning
A graduate or junior Planner can develop expertise in applications, policy and development strategy, then take responsibility for more complex projects. With experience, progression may lead to Planning Manager or broader planning leadership positions. Some professionals move between house builders, consultancies and local authorities, gaining different perspectives on the planning process.
Explore the career progression guide for more ways to develop your career.
Explore your next step in Planning
Explore individual job roles to compare opportunities, then find a house builder to learn about employers and possible openings.
Frequently asked questions about planning careers
A planner helps assess whether proposed development fits planning policies and works through the planning process. In house building, this can mean researching sites, preparing planning strategies, coordinating supporting studies, engaging with local authorities and communities, and helping manage applications. Planning decisions are usually made by the relevant planning authority.
A common route is to study an accredited planning qualification and gain relevant experience. Apprenticeship and other pathways may also be available. If you want professional recognition, check the current requirements of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), including accredited study and practical experience.
Land teams identify and seek to secure land for development with landowners. Planning teams assess the planning policy context, likely acceptability of the land for house building, submit planning applications and seek permissions on land with local planning authorities, taking into account local community opinion and other specialist interests. They collaborate closely: a promising site in principle still needs a viable planning route.
Planning work is often based in offices, meetings and consultation settings, but site visits are an important part of understanding a location and its constraints. Planners may continue advising during development if conditions or changes to approved plans need attention.
