Planning inspector roles: apply by 15 March 2026
The Planning Inspectorate is recruiting experienced built environment professionals to become planning inspectors, determining planning appeals across England.
Applications are currently open for professionals from planning and related fields to join the Planning Inspectorate as Band 1 planning inspectors.
For full details and to apply, visit Civil Service jobs
About the role
Planning inspectors determine planning appeals, considering evidence and reaching independent, well-reasoned decisions that affect communities across England. As a Band 1 inspector you will:
- work independently from home, with frequent travel for site visits and public hearings, primarily in London and the South East
- analyse complex information from a range of sources and identify the key issues for consideration
- write clear, authoritative, and well-reasoned decisions within expected timescales
- conduct public hearings into certain appeal proposals following appropriate training
- progress over time to more complex casework
This is intellectually challenging, varied work with genuine flexibility in how you manage your caseload.
Salary and benefits
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Salary: £48,775, rising to £57,893 on completion of training
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28.97% employer pension contribution
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25 days annual leave, rising by one day per year to 30 days
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Home-based working with flexible arrangements
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Part-time options available
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Travel and accommodation costs covered
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Professional membership fees paid
Who we are looking for
We welcome applications from chartered professionals across the built environment and related fields, including planning, architecture, surveying, law, engineering, transport, and environmental management. The common thread is not a specific qualification but the rigour and professional judgment developed over a career in practice.
To apply, you must hold full or chartered membership of a relevant professional body and be willing to travel frequently across England.
Watch our webinar
We recently held a webinar for prospective candidates. Watch the recording to hear from current inspectors, learn about the role, and get tips on applying.
Band 1 Planning Inspector Careers: Q&A session
Key dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications open | Now |
| Applications close | Sunday 15 March 2026 at 11:55pm |
| Shortlisting results | Week of 30 March 2026 |
| Interviews | 13 to 24 April 2026 |
| Expected start date | September 2026 |
Apply now
Applications are made through Civil Service Jobs:
Apply for Band 1 Planning Inspector
Questions?
Contact the recruitment team at PINS.Recruitment@planninginspectorate.gov.uk