The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) is encouraging its members to make known their views on the UK government’s response to Covid-19 as it impacts planners and the planning system.
The RTPI has over 25,000 members, many of whom will have been directly affected by recent developments which have included the temporary relaxation of some planning rules and updated guidance from the Planning Inspectorate.
Another area of concern for many members is support for self-employed workers - the RTPI yesterday urged Chancellor Rishi Sunak to deal urgently with the issue of protection for the self-employed, saying measures already introduced do not go far enough.
RTPI Chief Executive Victoria Hills said: “In these unprecedented times, we would urge all our members, whether working in the public or private sector, employed or self-employed, active or retired, to take part in this survey.
“Members’ responses will form a vital part of the RTPI’s discussions in the coming weeks and months with not only the UK Parliament, but also the Scottish, Welsh and Irish Governments too.”
The survey asks a range of questions concerning Covid-19 and it effect on the planning system, including
- What are your main concerns about the impact of the Coronavirus on the efficient functioning of the planning system?
- What changes have you made to your working practices in response to the current crisis?
- How effective are your IT systems?
- What measures are needed to enable the planning system to respond to the crisis?
The survey also asks for thoughts on how the RTPI can best support its members as the coronavirus outbreak develops.
Members can take part in the survey here. Please submit your responses before 5pm on Wednesday 8 April.