Newsletter Article

August 1, 2026

Planning Policy Recruitment Under Pressure from Reform

Planning Policy teams are experiencing heightened demand as councils respond to housing targets, regeneration programmes, and infrastructure projects. Public sector placements in town planning accounted for nearly a quarter of all government sector hires in FY25/26, underscoring the importance of policy delivery in meeting national objectives.

Recruitment activity is being shaped by legislative change, with planning reform driving demand for policy officers and senior planners who can interpret new frameworks. Candidate shortages remain acute, particularly in authorities undergoing local government reorganisation.

Employers are advised to emphasise long‑term stability and the strength of their policy pipeline when recruiting. Candidates are prioritising job security over salary, making reassurance around funding and delivery timelines essential to securing commitment.

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