Town Planner

Who we are

At Daniel Watney, we’re a team that values expertise, collaboration, and making a real difference to our clients. We partner with clients across the property sector, creating trusted relationships built on insight, clarity and perspective, and delivering value that lasts.

We believe our success comes from our people. We’re open with each other, honest in our conversations and consistent in how we communicate. We listen to different voices, value diverse experiences, backgrounds and stay curious. Through honest, strategic advice, trusted relationships, diverse thinking and purposeful delivery, we create lasting value and success.

The opportunity

We’re looking for a talented and motivated newly qualified Town Planner to join our planning team and develop their career with us. In this role, you will work on a wide variety of residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects, supporting planning applications, appeals, policy reviews, and site appraisals — mostly for private sector clients.

This is a fantastic opportunity to take the next step in your career, develop client relationships, and contribute to challenging, high-profile projects. You’ll be given real responsibility from day one, with the backing of experienced colleagues and a clear path for professional growth in a collaborative and supportive environment.

About your role

In this role, you’ll help clients navigate the planning system to deliver projects successfully and in line with their objectives. You’ll manage smaller applications independently, contribute to larger, more complex schemes, and work closely with colleagues across disciplines to provide integrated, high-quality advice.

What you will be doing

• Assist with planning applications from early discussions through to final approvals, including preparing clear reports and supporting documents.
• Visit sites, carry out assessments, and produce well-structured, insightful appraisals.
• Stay up to date with planning policy and legislation, explaining changes clearly to colleagues and clients.
• Work closely with clients, consultants, and local authorities to keep projects on track and resolve issues.
• Contribute to appeals and business development by preparing evidence, proposals, and engaging with clients.

What we are looking for

• Newly qualified, with some practical experience gained through placements, internships, or early career roles in consultancy, local authority, or developer environments.
• Good understanding of the English planning system, including key legislation and the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).
• Clear and confident communicator, both in writing and in person.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with great attention to detail.
• Organised and proactive, able to manage your time and meet deadlines.
• Friendly and collaborative, with a focus on building positive relationships with clients and colleagues.

Great to have

• Some exposure to major applications, regeneration projects, or planning appeals.
• An interest in viability, design, or sustainability and how these shape the planning process.
• Familiarity with GIS or other mapping tools.
• Experience (even in a supporting role) with planning committees, local plan examinations, appeal hearings, or public consultations.
• A curiosity about business development and building professional networks.

What’s in it for you

• 25 Days Off & Bank Holidays
• Flexible Working After Probation
• Private Medical Cover (Vitality)
• Matching Pension Contributions
• Professional Memberships
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Employee-Led Groups & Committees