It is the RTPI’s pleasure to award honorary membership to Plymouth City Council Chief Executive Tracey Lee, recognising her contribution to the advancement of planning in Plymouth.
Honorary membership is awarded to an individual who has made an immense positive impact on the profession but who is not usually eligible for Chartered membership.
Tracey started working as the Chief Executive of Plymouth City Council in October 2012 with a focus on delivering the Council’s ambition of being a Brilliant Cooperative Council by working collaboratively with stakeholders in the city and region. Tracey is leading the Peninsula Rail Taskforce and is also a member of the South West Adult Improvement Board.
Tracey has successfully led various projects including the development of a national procurement service for Wales and regional shared services, such as an education achievement service shared by five councils.
Tracey’s extensive influence, direction and leadership is recognised by the RTPI for the way she understands, advocates and drives forward the planning agenda for Plymouth, enabling staff and partners to come together and deliver an ambitious growth programme that supports and delivers Plymouth’s vision.
She has a significant track-record in both strategic housing policy and delivery in England and Wales and has been named as one of the most influential people in housing. She has personally led the Devolution Deal agenda, contributed to strategic discussions with Homes England, played a pivotal role in developing the Plymouth Investment Zone proposition and played a lead role in driving forward the Council’s approach to climate change.
Under her leadership, Plymouth City Council has twice won the prestigious RTPI Silver Jubilee Cup.
RTPI Past President Dr Wei Yang FRTPI was one of three people who nominated Tracey for the award.
Tracey Lee said: “It is a privilege to accept this invitation to become an honorary member of the RTPI. In the modern world, with pressures such as shortages in housing, climate change and the cost of living crisis, planning has never been more important in supporting vibrant, healthy and sustainable places for our communities.
“Ensuring good planning is essential and therefore I am proud to be part of RTPI – which strives to drive professional standards in the industry in the UK and across the world.”
Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the RTPI, said: “This recognition is a testament to Tracey's outstanding leadership skills and her unwavering dedication to the advancement of planning.
“Tracey's work in Plymouth is a shining example of the collaborative power of planners and demonstrates the importance of strong leadership that turns ambition into action.”
Tracey’s acceptance confirms her willingness to support and 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.
