September has been a whirlwind of political activity, marked by a timely focus on the future of England’s planning system. Submitted during the political buzz of conference season, the consultation response to proposals for changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) presents a significant opportunity to reshape how we deliver much-needed homes across the country.
These crucial proposals coinciding with party conference season has made for a packed agenda of discussions on both short- and medium-term risks, as well as opportunities to rebuild public trust in our planning system. You can dive deeper into insights from our policy experts here.
With this pivotal moment in mind, I set off for conference season, beginning in a sunny Brighton for the Liberal Democrat’s conference. There, I joined a panel with Planning Futures to discuss how we can ensure the delivery of the homes England needs.
Next, I was off to Liverpool to join the new Labour Government where, despite the dreary weather, the atmosphere was charged with optimism and debate. Together with RTPI President Lindsey Richards, our policy team, and a well-timed NPPF response ready at headquarters, we engaged with the Minister, MPs, councillors, and stakeholders from across the planning and built environment sectors.
Housing and planning dominated conversations, from roundtable discussions to networking receptions. We underscored the critical economic benefits of investing in the planning system. As highlighted by RTPI’s commissioned Public First report, the planning sector’s ability to meet housing targets without proper investment could leave £70 billion in additional value unrealised.
At our New Statesman panel, we reinforced the need to fund the planning sector and focus on retaining and upskilling the workforce. President Lindsey Richards highlighted the value planners bring to local communities.
A key moment in these discussions came during our Planning Futures panel with Minister Matthew Pennycook MP. His input on strategic planning was invaluable, and it helped us strengthen our case for the vital role that planners play in shaping better communities.
Leading RTPI members Catriona Riddell and Hannah Hickman also presented findings from their research on strategic planning, setting the stage for an open discussion with parliamentarians, councillors, RTPI members, and other sector representatives.
The political whirlwind wrapped up in Birmingham, where I joined RTPI Vice President Helen Fadipe at the Conservative Party Conference. Together, we emphasised the importance of planners in navigating challenging times and steering us towards a better future.
On a celebratory note, I want to congratulate Helen, who has recently been elected as an RTPI Fellow – another significant milestone in her distinguished career. I’d also like to congratulate Jan Bessell, the newly elected RTPI Vice President, who I’m excited to work alongside in the years ahead.
As I take a moment to catch my breath after this intense month, I’d like to share a personal milestone. I recently returned to my alma mater, the University of Wolverhampton to mark one of the proudest achievements of my life – becoming the first Doctor in my family, 30 years after being the first in my extended family to attend university.
Addressing over 400 graduates, I reminded them to seize every opportunity that comes their way, as you never know where it might lead.
The past month has underscored just how important the future of planning is, not only for the housing crisis but for the communities we serve. I look forward to the continued work ahead.
