West Sussex Area Countryside Officer

The Ramblers work to help everyone enjoy the pleasures and benefits of walking, and to enhance and protect the places where people walk. We are committed to encouraging and supporting walking, protecting and expanding public rights of way and access land, and protecting the beauty of the countryside and other areas.

The role involves reviewing planning applications published by local authorities in West Sussex and by the South Downs National Park Authority and lodging objections if they are likely to have an adverse effect on the countryside and the places where people walk. Objections are usually submitted in writing through a response to the planning process, but can also involve site visits and on occasions attendance at public hearings.

The person in the role will be a member of the Area Council and work closely with other  volunteers, such as the Area Footpath Officer and East Sussex Area Countryside Officer, and where necessary can seek support from Ramblers' Central Office. 

Skills

You should have a passion for walking and for preservation and protection of the natural beauty of the countryside and the special qualities of urban space. Experience and knowledge of the Local Authorities planning process would be an advantage. The position is suitable for someone who is highly motivated, reliable, organised, and capable of taking initiative with an ability to articulate issues clearly both in written and spoken form. A desire and ability to work in a team environment is essential. You will also need to be comfortable using a computer and the internet, and managing information.

Benefits

• Play a vital role in protecting the places in West Sussex where we love to walk by holding local and national park authorities to account for planning decisions
• Engage with a friendly group of like-minded people in protecting and opening up access to the countryside
• Build skills in assessing planning issues as they impact the rural environment and a network of contacts in the Area.

Practical Considerations

The role is principally home-based but may involve site visits, attendance at public hearings and meetings with representatives of planning authorities.

The average time requirement is estimated at up to 2 days a week.

The role holder will need to attend Area Council meetings which take place quarterly on Saturday mornings at Haywards Heath - remote access can also be provided by Zoom call.

The role holder should live in Sussex. If not already a member of the Ramblers, the role holder will require to become a member.

When do I need to be available?

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Monday
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Register your Interest