The Surrey Hills National Landscape Partnership seeks to appoint a suitably qualified freelance consultant to provide specialist planning and landscape advice on the Surrey Hills National Landscape, the designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

The consultant will support the Surrey Hills Planning Adviser, the Surrey Hills National Landscape team and the local planning authorities to ensure that planning policy and development proposals appropriately recognise, protect and enhance the natural beauty, landscape character and special qualities of the Surrey Hills National Landscape.

The appointment will be made on a consultancy basis. The term of the agreement will be an initial 6 months and subject to review. 

Purpose of the Appointment

To provide expert planning and landscape advice to the Surrey Hills Planning Adviser on development proposals affecting the Surrey Hills National Landscape.  This may include preparation of written submissions, proofs of evidence and supporting documentation for hearings and inquires, as required.

Consultant Requirements

Applicants should demonstrate:

  • Significant experience in planning, landscape planning, environmental planning or a related discipline.
  • Strong knowledge of the National Landscapes (Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty) framework, planning policy and environmental legislation.
  • Experience of preparing planning policy responses and advising on development proposals.
  • Experience of representing organisations at examinations, hearings, inquiries or appeals.
  • Excellent written communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Membership of a relevant professional body (RTPI, CMLI or equivalent) is desirable.

Contract Arrangements

The appointment will be made on a consultancy basis. The term of the agreement will be an initial 6 months and subject to review.

The anticipated workload will be variable and commissioned as required by the Surrey Hills National Landscape Partnership. On average we anticipate around 10 to 15 hours per week will be required. Milage will be paid at £0.45 per mile for site visit and essential business.

The consultant will report to the Surrey Hills Planning Adviser or nominated officer.

Tender Submission

Interested consultants should provide:

  1. A brief proposal outlining your understanding of the brief and proposed approach.
  2. Relevant experience and examples of comparable assignments.
  3. Daily or hourly rates and an indication of expected availability.

Please submit by email to surreyhills@surreycc.gov.uk by 30th September 2026. 

For more information, contact Clive Smith, Surrey Hills Planning Adviser at clive.smith@surreycc.gov.uk or Rob Fairbanks, Surrey Hills National Landscape Director at rob.fairbanks@surreycc.gov.uk