The Royal Town Planning Institute would like to congratulate Paul Willmott and Andrew Jones on being elected Fellows of the Institute.
Chartered Fellow is the highest professional membership grade offered by the RTPI and is only awarded to chartered members who have made a major personal contribution to the planning profession for the benefit of the public. Under the provisions of the Royal Charter, they are now entitled to use the designatory letters FRTPI.
Paul has been recognised for his work over three decades, which has embraced roles at Bidwells LLP, CBRE and Runnymede Borough Council.
He has been particularly recognised for the strong commitment he has given in helping to develop young planners - supporting the establishment of the RTPI Degree Apprenticeship, teaching Master’s students at Reading University, helping those applying for their APC’s and supporting the Planners Beyond Boundaries initiative.
Paul said: “I am delighted to have been elected to Fellowship of the RTPI. It is a huge honour to be recognised for one’s achievements in this way, and tops off a career in a profession that I believe really does play a vital role in delivering change, supporting communities and protecting and enhancing the environment.
"I am especially pleased to be recognised for the support I have given to young and emerging planners. I once asked my Dundee University tutor, the late Dr Irene B Wilson, why she split her time between teaching and working for the UN Development Programme.
"Her response was that young planners inspired her to do better and if one was truly to embrace community and the environment, then the young generation was the one to embrace. She would have been immensely proud of my success. I will continue to support and inspire young planners and those with an interest in planning”.
Andrew Jones is an urban planner who has demonstrated a strong commitment to encouraging the career development of young planners by supporting AECOM to become a learning partner with RTPI. He has also been recognised for his work in leading international projects and exporting planning globally.
He said: “I would like to thank the RTPI for electing me as a Fellow of the Institute, and also those who kindly supported my nomination. To be acknowledged by peers for the contribution that I have made to the profession is incredibly special recognition.
"Being elected to Fellowship gives me new impetus to support others into and through the profession, but also reminds me that we should not stop learning from others, as well as the importance of continuing to advocate the positive value and relevance of town planning in addressing today’s challenges.
“My journey in town planning began with inspiring lectures by Professor Gordon Cherry. He spoke about the critical role planners and civic leaders have and must play in managing valuable urban and natural resources, alongside facilitating economic growth for the benefit of society as a whole.
“I hope that I have carried this learning through my career with an enthusiasm for the vital role we all play in positively shaping communities, working on projects with talented planners at Chesterton, EDAW and AECOM. I have learned so much from them and hope that I have also made a positive contribution to their professional development.”
Find out how to apply for a Fellowship here.
