The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of Sylvia Law's inauguration as its first female president. This occasion highlighted the significant changes the Institute has undergone in the last half century.
On Tuesday, 16 July, a special celebration was held in London, bringing together RTPI members, Past Presidents, and staff to commemorate 50 years of inspirational women within the Institute. The event honoured Sylvia Law's ground-breaking appointment and the subsequent progress made for gender equality in the planning profession.
Celebrating 50 years since Sylvia Law was inaugurated alongside past presidents Sue Manns, Sue Bridge, and Wei Yang
RTPI Chief Executive Victoria Hills speaks at the event
According to her obituary in The Times, Sylvia Law's presidency was regarded as an 'extraordinary feat'. Her inauguration in 1974 marked a pivotal moment for the RTPI and the planning profession as a whole. While her appointment symbolised a significant shift towards gender equality, progress following her presidency was gradual. It took 20 years for the Institute to welcome its second female president, Hazel Mckay, and another 14 years before the third, Janet O’Neill, assumed the role.
However, the pace of change accelerated after Skippers, with seven female presidents inaugurated in the following 15 years. The current Vice President of the RTPI, Helen Fadipe, is set to become the 11th female president next year.
This rate of change is reflected in the membership. While 2023’s State of the Profession report estimated that 40% of planners were women, it also found a gender parity among the younger members, showing a gender balance in the next generation of planners.
During the celebration, influential women from various sectors of the profession shared their reflections on Sylvia Law and her impact. Notably, RTPI President Lindsey Richards emphasised the enduring relevance of Sylvia's inauguration speech, particularly in addressing issues such as the shortage of planners, lack of trust, climate change, and the complex relationship with planners, all of which remain pertinent today.
While the RTPI has made strides in promoting gender equity in the industry, there remains more to be done, particularly in increasing the representation of women in senior leadership positions. The Institute continues to champion diversity and gender equality, recognising the importance of fostering an inclusive and equitable planning profession.
Sylvia's speech has been reproduced from back issues of the Planner. You can view our full archive here.
Delegates enjoyed the iconic view from Howden's offices who sponsored the event
The event brought together RTPI members, Past Presidents, and staff
