West Yorkshire Combined Authority is delivering a transformative Mass Transit scheme to connect communities, reduce congestion and support sustainable growth across the region. As a key partner, Leeds City Council is seeking an accomplished Nature Conservation expert to help shape the environment for this major transport infrastructure. This role offers the opportunity to support nature conservation strategies for the forthcoming West Yorkshire Mass Transit – playing a central role in the TWAO (Transport and Works Act Order) process and representing the organisation at public inquiries.

This role will be a cross-boundary resource for both Leeds City Council and Bradford Council to reflect Phase 1 of the Mass Transit system which will see routes from Leeds to Bradford and south Leeds to the city centre.

About you

As a Nature Conservation Officer you will bring to the role:

• A relevant qualification or specialist degree relevant to the role.

• Detailed understanding of the relevant specialism, legislation and practice.

• Detailed understanding of current UK planning policy, legislation and practice.

• Experience of working effectively with others to deliver cross projects.

About the role 

As a Principal Nature Conservation Officer you will play a key role in assessing, managing and mitigating nature conservation impacts associated with the planning, construction and operation of the Mass Transit system. Your role will be integral to ensuring developments are compliant with complex ecology and BNG requirements, shape city-wide nature conservation policy and provide expert guidance on planning and environmental matters.

This is a unique opportunity to apply your technical expertise in forward-thinking local authorities and your insights will directly influence how people live work and thrive in our communities. Key responsibilities of the role will include:

• Contributing to statutory and regulatory processes, including the preparation of Transport and Works Act Orders (TWAO), and representing the organisation in formal proceedings such as public inquiries.
• Review Environmental Impact Assessment (EIAs), planning applications and technical reports related to ecology and BNG impacts

• Provide specialist guidance on ecology and BNG mitigation measures throughout the design and construction stages, including the drafting of robust planning conditions.

The service is based in Merrion House in Leeds City Centre, but has adopted a flexible, hybrid working model. There is an expectation that work will also be undertaken in Bradford at Britannia House in Bradford City Centre.