The COVID-19 pandemic has brought into sharp focus the strengths and weaknesses of our places and has shown us how good planning is vital for our wellbeing, the sustainability of the planet and a more inclusive society.
That’s the positive message from RTPI President Sue Manns FRTPI at the end of a particularly busy and challenging year for the Institute and for the planning profession as a whole.
Speaking to members in a video released this week, Sue said:
“When facing the unexpected, planners and the planning profession have showed themselves to be innovative, resilient and adaptable and, as a result, have kept the planning system functioning.
“We have also learnt some interesting lessons, and as we look to the future, we must not forget what this pandemic has taught us about the importance of sustainable, resilient and inclusive places.
“Great planning is key to our future, to our health and happiness, to sustainability and to a more inclusive society both today and for generations to come.”
Sue also described how ‘almost overnight’ the RTPI became a digital organisation as meetings, events and training all moved online. With social distancing guidelines set to continue for the foreseeable future, the RTPI has already launched its online events programme, free for members, for the first six months of 2021.
Sue’s 12-month term as President finishes on 20 January when she will hand over the chain of office to current vice-president Wei Yang FRTPI. All members are invited to view the ceremony which will be broadcast as a YouTube Premiere - subscribe to the RTPI’s channel now to ensure you are among the first to know when new videos are published.
