Planning Volunteer (Central Bedfordshire)
CPRE Bedfordshire - The Countryside Charity
If you're concerned about the increasing development in the Bedfordshire countryside, then you could make a difference by joining our planning team and help protect our green spaces and rural communities.
Planning volunteers engage with the local planning system and campaign on local planning issues to influence how Bedfordshire’s countryside and rural communities are developed. This includes working with local communities, town and parish councils and local action groups to advise and support them when their local countryside and green spaces are under threat. We help them respond to planning applications and appeals to ensure they have the best chance of protecting their local environment. Some experience in a planning related area (i.e. Town Planning, architecture, environmental, transport, nature) would be helpful but is not essential as you will work alongside one of our established planning volunteers who will provide you with any training and support needed to develop your local knowledge and understanding of the issue we work on. You’ll gain valuable skills and experience in the planning process for a range of different developments. This role includes:- Investigating planning applications with an impact on the countryside for example by viewing proposals online Visiting proposed development sites to look at plans and record details (so a car is required) Sharing this information with the CPRE Beds Planning team at weekly meetings Liaising with parish and district councils and other conservation bodies Liaising National CPRE teams to contribute to consultations and policy development Writing responses to planning applications.
Administration,Advice, Information & Support,Environmental,Campaigning & Lobbying
Admin, Basic IT skills - internet & email, Evaluating & Reviewing, UK Driving Licence
Ideally, we hope that you can offer us most of the qualities described below but training and mentoring will be provided. • a strong interest in the protection of the countryside • some understanding and experience of the planning system - this could be through work with your parish council or your work or personal experience. • an interest in investigative work, with an eye for detail • good communication skills - written and verbal • computer literate - the internet, e-mail and MS Word
This is an opportunity to be involved in a vital aspect of our work. You will gain satisfaction from investigating local concerns, improve your knowledge of the planning system, meet local people and feel part of a friendly and passionate group. CPRE volunteers are motivated to help for a range of reasons, but normally they have a strong interest in protecting and enhancing the environment, as well as encouraging people to enjoy the countryside and all it has to offer. Benefits include: • A great opportunity to use your existing experience and to develop new skills • Working with others to make a difference both locally and nationally • The potential to meet and discuss issues with a wide range of like-minded people • Opportunities to attend local and national CPRE activities, events and workshops
2-3 hours a week
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Can be done from home with occasional meetings locally.
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