It is the RTPI’s pleasure to award honorary membership to Dame Katherine Barker, recognising her contribution to the advancement of planning.
Dame Katherine has made substantial contributions to planning policy and the understanding of the interaction between state and market in the operation of land and property markets, and is much appreciated by the planning profession.
Past President of the RTPI Vincent Goodstadt MRTPI, one of three people who nominated Dame Katherine for the award, said, "It has left me in no doubt about the honour we have as an institute to have Kate as one of our honorary members. She is not only exceptional in her own field of economics, but she has contributed hugely to the debate about planning which has stimulated the profession to think more seriously about the link between planning and policy."
Not only has Goodstadt been aware of Dame Katherine's work for several years, but has been closely involved with her work, especially in the UK 2070 Commission. “In particular, I've always been impressed by Kate's generosity of time in advising and steering us in the development of our planning thinking,” said Goodstadt.
As well as having led two major government inquiries into planning, Dame Katherine has continued to make valuable contributions through her many non-executive roles in housing, property and planning. She has bought great insights as an experienced applied economist into the operation of the planning system and its impacts on land and property, especially housing and infrastructure.
"I'm so delighted to be made an honorary member,” said Dame Katherine on accepting the award. “I've learnt such a lot from the RTPI about what planning can achieve. Today planning is more important than ever as we struggle with the challenges of climate change and increased awareness of biodiversity issues."
Dame Katherine's work has been highly influential, helping to shape and lead the planning and property industry. Her acceptance of this honorary membership confirms her willingness to support in full and will work to promote the Institute’s objectives to advance the science and art of planning (including town and country and spatial planning) for the benefit of the public.
