The document discusses the need for planning education to adapt to the government's focus on localism and economic development. It suggests that planning education should provide skills to support neighborhood planning while implementing the NPPF. It also argues that planning academics need to do more to promote the value of planning and the profession, such as engaging media and communicating research more widely. Planning schools should develop more outward-facing strategies, including emphasizing planning's role in sustainable development and improving engagement.

1. Issue 69 March/April 2012
Special Sustainability Edition
M A G A Z I N E O F T H E R . T . P . I . W E S T M I D L A N D S
Let the games begin! The RTPI Ball and
Annual Awards. Friday 13th July 2012 Inside
Chairman’s report 2
fter the fantastic success of last year’s Tickets are now available from Sue Griffith-
A glamorous Brits Awards party, the RTPI
West Midlands is delighted to announce
that this summer all members are invited to
Jones on 0121 709 1599 or email
westmidlands@rtpi.org.uk Book & pay before
the 15th June to take advantage of the
Sustainable Development
– Coalition Style
3
our very own Summer of Sport Awards Ball for earlybird rate of £45 per person. Tables of ten ‘This is a local shop 4
Planning Achievement. are also available at £450. Ticket prices will for local people’
increase from 15th June.
Why not help celebrate planning excellence in
Birmingham and Black 5
the region and join the sporting extravaganza on RTPI West Midlands are very grateful to GVA
Country ‘Nature
Friday 13th July 2011 at the wonderful for taking the lead sponsorship package, and
Improvement Area’
Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Partners and to Alliance Planning, DLA Piper, JMP and No5
guests are very welcome to join us for dinner, Chambers for taking other sponsorship
the presentation of regional awards by the packages. Green Infrastructure 5
Institute’s President, Colin Haylock, and dancing.
The Summer of Sport Awards Ball will be a An experience of 6
In addition to the main award for Planning black tie event. There’ll be music and dancing, Berlin & Freiburg
Achievement (and possible commendations), good food, warm company and a real chance
there will be awards for the Best Consultancy, to see the West Midlands at its best! See you Freiburg – the 7
Best Local Authority, Team of the Year, Young there! sustainable city
Planner of the Year, Chairman’s Award, and
new for 2012, Planning Leaders Award. Details Please book early to avoid disappointment. Child’s Play 8
of how to make nominations can be found on We anticipate demand will be high for this
the flier attached to this magazine. event. I Managing Environmental 9
Change at the Rural
Urban Fringe
The Sustainable Urban 9
Neighbourhoods Network
(SUNN) Publishes
Final Report
Planning Aid England 10
Planning Aid – Stop press 10
RTPI launches Map 11
for England debate
RTPI Planning 11
Leaders Award
David Jones: 1952–2012 12
Editor – John Acres, Ripon Cottage, 5 Manor Road, Kilsby, Near Rugby, Warks, CV23 8XS CPD events 12
Work: 0121 234 9106 • Home: 01788 824343 • Email: acresclark@lineone.net
1 | Mar / Apr

2. Chairman’s report
elcome to this environmentally Improving our connectivity, especially within
W themed Tripwire. It is excellent that
we have the opportunity to show
diversity within our profession and
the region is an absolute must. As for the
south east airport debate, I am sure a
number of people will be looking at that with
personally, with an Environmental Science interest – in particular Birmingham Airport.
background, it is good to see how this field
is growing. Messages from Government are once again
that planning is seen as a barrier to
In any profession it is important not develop investment and harms the economy.
cliques or become too self-indulgent or Whether true or not, what is clear is that we,
inward-looking and indeed to move forward, as a profession, need to prove our value, use
whilst appreciating from where we have the powers we have got fully and move
come. Specialists need to be aware of a forward quickly. We need to show our added
wider world, being able to adapt and value and our right to be at the table.
modernise and to embrace change. It applies
to all organisations and individuals. The new We need to show the world that the critics
RTPI website will be coming soon. are misguided about the planning
profession. To do this we must work as one,
It has been a hectic couple of months since share best practice, learn from mistakes and
the last edition of Tripwire, with new wherever possible lead.
initiatives, progress and success on all And above all socialise with each other and
fronts. The Budget was quickly followed by To assist you there are a number of things have some fun. Our Annual Awards
the National Planning Policy Framework. The that RTPI West Midlands are doing: Ceremony on 13th July 2012 at the Botanical
final version of the NPPF is much improved Gardens is shaping up to be a fantastic
on the draft, in my view, with the new 12 • CPD Season Ticket – keep yourself up to event. We are looking for nominations (for
month transition period, but overall it could date and at the forefront of what is awards) sponsors and tickets are going fast
have been a lot worse. At least some of the happening around us. The next few so don’t forget to book early.
principal concerns appear to have been events will be on 16th May, 1st June and
addressed. But some of the definitions will 20th June. By the time you read this I will be in
still need to be closely monitored. (see Rome…… but please feel free to contact me if
comment elsewhere in this edition) • Share and discuss issues of the day – you feel inclined to give feedback or want to
both the RTPI West Midlands and RTPI know more. I
Obviously HS2 is in the Budget, but in terms centrally are on LinkedIn.
of infrastructure, I considered that projects Andy Thompson
for the West Midlands were very limited in • Nominate best practice – we are looking RTPI West Midlands Chair
comparison to other regions such as the for nominations for regional awards. Email: thompsonaj@walsall.gov.uk
northwest and southeast (for example). Show us all how good you all are. or via my LinkedIn Profile
Upcoming Events
16 MAY – LEPs & REGENERATION
21 MAY – RTPI MIDLANDS AGM (see below)
1 JUNE – NPPF & THE FUTURE OF STRATEGIC PLANNING
20 JUNE – ROLE OF COUNCILLORS IN QUALITY DESIGN
Contact: westmidlands@rtpi.org.uk
The RTPI West Midlands AGM, which is free to all
members, will be held on 21st May 2012 at 6.30pm at
The Welcome Centre, Parkside, Coventry. The AGM will
be followed by a presentation by RTPI Development
Planning Network Manager, Andrew Matheson,
entitled “Open Source Planning – The Reality”.
Refreshments will be provided. No need to book.
––––––––––––––––––––
Tripwire Editor; John Acres is now Residential Business
Director at Turley Associates; 9 Colmore Row,
Birmingham. B3 2BJ Telephone; 0121 234 9106
Email: jacres@turleyassociates.co.uk
2 | Mar / Apr

3. Sustainable Development – Coalition Style
o the waiting is over and with the The policies in paragraphs 18 to 219,
S publication of the final National
Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)
we now have a ‘significantly enhanced’
taken as a whole, constitute the
Governments view of what sustainable
development in England means in
definition of sustainable development practice for the planning system.
and even a policy specifically designed
to ensure that Sustainable Development I think there can be little debate that in
can secure a consent in the absence of a the draft version the Government placed
development plan. Whatever your view more weight on the economic aspects of
of the definition or the content of the sustainable development although the
NPPF might be, there can no doubt how final document has sought to rebalance
the Government views the NPPF and the this with the social and environmental
relationship between planning and aspects through a number of additional
sustainable development. The Ministerial policies and by reaffirming that all
foreword is quite clear; elements should be sought jointly and
simultaneously through the planning
The purpose of planning is to help system.
achieve sustainable development.
It is interesting that there are no enhancement is still there along with an
For someone who believes in the concept references in the NPPF to some of the introduction to the concept of Garden
of sustainable development is this now more traditional metrics of sustainability Cities which was a surprise, but welcome
an unambiguous steer from Government such as BREEAM or Code for Sustainable addition. Conversations with my urban
that it is serious about sustainable Homes. There is a direct reference to design colleagues excites me about the
development and it will live up to its applying the governments zero carbon prospect of being involved in such a
claim to be The Greenest Government buildings policy which is interesting project and one would hope that the
Ever. given the fact that we do not yet have all market will respond to this opportunity
of the information on the Governments as it did with the Ecotowns policy.
The waiting may well be over but the Zero Carbon Buildings policy! We do
debate can now start! What does the know that this is being implemented So now that we know that the policies
Government mean by Sustainable through Building Regulations and that within the NPPF are effectively the
Development and does this mean that these are continuing on a rapid timetable Governments blueprint for Sustainable
implementing this in practice will require of improvements toward the eventual Development, what does this mean in
us to develop new systems and tools to Zero Carbon standard. Is the NPPF practice for the sustainability and
demonstrate that our applications are implying that local authorities should planning professions. Do we have to
sustainable? simply use Building Regulations as their adopt a completely new approach to
adopted metric for carbon emission sustainability and set new expectations,
No doubt there will be many different reductions in new build? One could or is there a mechanism for
views on this as the NPPF is scrutinised argue this with greater effect based on demonstrating that a scheme is
and then put into practice. Here are the draft version but the introduction of sustainable?
some of my thoughts! paragraph 96 in the final NPPF suggests
that local ‘Merton rules’ or carbon In truth the NPPF still promotes a range
What does the Government mean by targets could still exist although an of sustainability features that we have
Sustainable Development? evidence based viability study will still become accustomed to integrating into
be required. our projects, so we can continue to
I think we can answer this question very promote these in our schemes.
easily. Ever since the draft first appeared As planners and sustainability Sustainable Development is now at the
in July 2011, I have felt that too much practitioners the NPPF creates an heart of the planning system and the
emphasis was being placed on the excellent opportunity for us to continue planning community should seize this
definition of sustainable development. It to positively shape the built positive opportunity to continue to make
is important of course, but it was an environment. As an example the NPPF a real difference. Within Turley
realistic expectation to have developed a gives great weight to design quality as a Associates we have already had many
definition that could be applied in sustainability indicator and our urban interesting discussions on implementing
practice given the largely subjective design colleagues can use this to create Sustainable Development – Coalition
nature of sustainable development and new communities and places that Style – so we look forward to the
the unique social, environmental and promote low carbon living through challenge!
economic characteristics that each homes that meet increasingly stringent
project displays. building regulations requirements and Finally, I thought a word search of the
that facilitate sustainable transportation NPPF might be interesting. A quick
I believe greater focus should be on what either through site selection or through a appraisal of the policy text suggests that
the Government thinks sustainable sustainable travel plan. There is a clear Sustainable is mentioned 91 times,
development should look like in practice. reference to the importance of mitigating Economic 43 times, Environmental 30
For the planning profession this and adapting to a changing climate and times and Social 24 times. Does that tell
translation of policy into physical and so we see policies supporting the us anything more? I
spatial characteristics of plans and development of renewable and low
projects is one of our principal carbon infrastructure (an absolute Colin Morrison
objectives. Paragraph 6 of the NPPF priority in my opinion!) and the use of Head of Sustainability
states green infrastructure as an adaptation Turley Associates
feature. Biodiversity protection and
3 | Mar / Apr

4. ‘This is a local shop for local people’
Reflections on the future of planning
education in an era of localism.
iven the coalition government’s
G ambition to ‘radically reform’ the
planning system by placing a
strong emphasis on ‘localism’, whilst
simultaneously seeking to relax
planning legislation in an effort to
stimulate economic development, it is
timely to consider what these proposals
might mean for the future teaching of
planning. Arguably, planning education
– at least in the short-term – will have to
provide aspirant planners and
developers with the multifunctional
technical and personal skills and
knowledge(s) to both support and development theme. Here we stress to publicise and communicate where
neighbourhood planning whilst the way planning interacts with the planning has been successful. Whilst
delivering on the onerous set of natural environment and how the internet is cited by many as the
provisions outlined in the NPPF. development is as much about the social prime source for information, this is a
Crucially, at a moment when planning and environmental improvement as GDP! passive form of communication and
and the environment are seen by engagement. More needs to be done by
government as the ‘enemy of Second, course teams teaching on planners for planners in terms of raising
enterprise’, the wider public also need planning courses should seek to actively the profile in TV and media interviews,
to be reminded of the importance of a encourage, promote and develop media blogs and the like. Academic planners
strong planning profession to help contacts through existing regional RTPI could do much more here to showcase
enable their needs and aspirations in networks, university marketing and the findings of successful research
emerging local plans. press officers, careers advisers and projects using the power of digital
identify spaces in the (national and media technology. This approach has
However, as academics we can and local) media calendar when they might this obvious and immediate advantage
should do more to help champion be more receptive to stories relating to of circumventing the ‘traditional’ tabloid
planning both in terms of promoting the positive aspects of planning. By print media agenda - which perhaps
value of the discipline and the profession. recognising the potential opportunities currently gives more attention to the
The silence of academic criticism within for encouraging news stories that have limitations or the failings of a
the draft NPPF last year was deafening an ‘everyday’ significance is particularly ‘dysfunctional’ planning system - to
and does reflect a gap between the relevant given the recent attention that reach those potential audiences for
agendas of planning academics and the has been focused on the participatory whom newspapers may not be the most
wider policy community. First, there is a aspects of planning. This raises the immediate source of information.
need to embark on a thorough critical rather obvious question over the need
assessment of how planning education for planning education - and those Whether academic planners are
and planning itself engages with, and is academics involved with the creation of motivated by reasons of disciplinary
understood by, the broader public. research projects – to consider how survival and job protection, dedication
Planning schools, therefore, should these projects will be communicated in to pedagogy - or any mixture of these
develop strategies that are more ways that can genuinely stimulate factors - it is argued that we need to
‘outward-facing’. These could include a greater levels of public interest in the seriously consider how to communicate
greater level of critical engagement discipline. Oxygen should also be given in different registers for wider audiences
through participatory work, advocacy, to the promotion of those stories where and broader impact. The government’s
user guides and knowledge exchange of good quality local development has Localism Act and the publication of the
research and consultancy through more been successfully achieved - not just National Planning Policy Framework
accessible media. Of particular because of high levels of local public represent two of the most significant
importance to the future of planning involvement but also because a pieces of legislation to affect the
schools is the need to engage with ‘strategic’ and ‘joined-up’ planning planning system since the 1947 Act. The
schools and colleges alerting students to system allowed for the development to rhetoric accompanying these pieces of
the potential of a career in the built flourish. For example, Birmingham City legislation has done little to enhance
environment professions. Here, planning University have recently developed an the public perception of the discipline.
schools should combine forces with innovative set of Video Policy Briefs and If the approaches outlined above were
public, private and voluntary sector an interactive learning tool ‘Rufopoly’ embraced, these small and subtle shifts
planners to deliver powerful messages under recent research on the rural urban in practice could go some way to
about the opportunities and challenges fringe funded by the Research Councils changing such negative representations
of a planning career. In short, the UK Relu programme. of planning. I
product that is being delivered should be
attractive to and, more importantly, Finally, some emphasis should be David Adams and Alister Scott,
distinctive to prospective students. For placed on ensuring that websites and Birmingham School
example, Birmingham School of the Built other multimedia (websites, blogs, of the Built Environment
Environment is developing its own unique podcasts, and other forms of social Birmingham City University, Millennium
identity within the environment planning networking) are used more successfully Point, Curzon Street. Birmingham.
4 | Mar / Apr

5. Birmingham and Black Country
‘Nature Improvement Area’
n response to Professor Sir John targeted approach to improving greenspace example, the project was the only one to
I Lawton’s report ‘Making Space for
Nature’, the Natural England White Paper
initiated a competition to select 12 Nature
and encouraging biodiversity with a genuine
will to engage local people in the work. In
some rural areas there was fear that NIA
propose a co-ordinated approach to
enhancing the ground flora of planted
urban woodlands, for example, it seems
Improvement Areas (NIAs). These would status could stifle development; in contrast everyone is in favour of planting trees, but
become the foundations of an England- urban planners embraced the proposals. there is a strange reticence when it comes
wide network of landscapes managed with They recognised that investment in green to adding the smaller flowers and plants
biodiversity in mind. It appears that the infrastructure and improving the quality of that make characterless plantations into
initial entry of 76 proposals took DEFRA the environment are critical to attracting new thriving woodlands. Finally, and perhaps
somewhat by surprise – not least because businesses and driving urban regeneration – surprisingly, the quality of the data the
of the quality of the great majority. What indeed the NIA seemed an obvious wildlife and habitats across the NIA is
followed was a long, and rather gruelling, extension of aspirations and policies already exceptional, allowing a sophisticated
process which reduced the field to 20, then in place across the area. spatial approach to targeting delivery.
15. Perhaps unsurprisingly, most of the final
12 are well known ‘countryside’ landscapes So what made the project stand out? The The long term aims of the NIA include
that one might expect to fulfil such a role – partnership brought together by the restoring the scattered remnants of
the limestone around Purbeck, the South Wildlife Trust for Birmingham and the Black heathland across Walsall and Birmingham,
Downs and the Dark Peak. Yet there is one Country to develop the project has restoring the management of neglected
name on the list that is very different; impressive credentials. The support of all grasslands and improving the wetland
Birmingham and the Black Country has five local authorities was key, as was that of network of river and canal corridors that
become the only totally urban Nature Government agencies. But the presence of plays a crucial role in linking wildlife
Improvement Area. large and small voluntary sector habitats across the area. I
organisations and businesses (including
The Birmingham and Black Country NIA two of the biggest environmental Neil M. Wyatt
brings together many existing initiatives, consultancies) added to the credibility of Chief Executive, Birmingham
such as the Black Country Urban Park, with a the bid. A second factor was innovation. For & Black Country Wildlife Trust
Green Infrastructure
“When we see land as a community to many green features which already exist in The use of the term ‘green infrastructure’ is
which we belong, we may begin to use it our towns and rural areas such as trees, a huge and important philosophical and
with love and respect”. Aldo Leopold woods, football pitches, road verges, conceptual step in placing natural features
gardens and fields. in the frame along side the other important
he term ‘green infrastructure’ is components of the man made environment.
T increasingly becoming established as
part of the planning language in much
the same way that ‘green corridors’ were in
The value that using the term ‘green
infrastructure’ brings is that it is an
understanding and approach to green
It takes green features such as arboriculture,
biodiversity, open space provision, street
tree planning, Sustainable urban drainage,
vogue several years ago. features as a joined up and strategic matrix (SUDS) etc. and places them as part of the
of ‘natural’ features relating to and part of urban design of places. I
In the same way that terms such as ‘green the man made environment that help make
corridors’ and ‘green wedges’ meant very good and successful places. For more information on green
little to local communities, the term green infrastructure planning please contact:
infrastructure probably means very little to This in essence is green infrastructure
the everyday person who would see it (very planning. Michael Vout
reasonably) as a jargon expression of the Chair of WM RTPI Urban Design Forum
5 | Mar / Apr

6. A different shade of green
An experience of Berlin & Freiburg bristled with activity. We visited new, the nearest former filling station
outlying housing areas served by public forecourt or ex-industrial unit to watch
s well as all the ‘eco-savvy-ness’
A
tramways and all manner of communal, underpaid migrants wash your car this
our Birmingham City University commercial and social facilities and weekend, why not pull it down the drive
field trip to Germany displayed, services, built long before the houses and wash it yourself (using no more
the element that struck and impressed were completed. In what we would than two buckets of water, of course).
me the most was the social dimension consider areas of high density housing, As you’re doing so, chat to the
of sustainable living. After all, if a place with structures of 3-5 storeys in height, neighbours and passers-by. They may
isn’t desirable to live in, it’s not going to never more than a short walk away from think you’re mad but, if nothing else,
be sustainable. communal open space, shops and the exercise will do you good.
efficient public transport, fences were
Berlin appeared to be an anxious city, few and far between. Boundaries Better still, when you’ve finished, pull the
constantly in a state of churn, between ‘private’ gardens and car up against the garage – which, if it’s
attempting to cherry-pick a version of communal spaces were defined by anything like mine, is still full of junk, the
the past to carry forward into yet virtually transparent (in springtime) low majority of which hasn’t seen the light of
another reinvention of the future. hedges of planting, the wood stores and day since you last moved house. If you
Restless and vibrant, it was kids toys there for all to see but, can find them in there, get out a garden
nevertheless, an attractive place, and evidently not touch. chair or two, and maybe a table, and set
not just to visitors. During an effortless them up on your drive or in the front
conversation with an economics More particularly, these open areas garden. Have a glass of something
graduate on a railway journey between between the houses were far better refreshing; after all, you’ve earned it.
the Berlin and Freiburg (the majority of used, by all members of the Chat some more to the neighbours, if
Germans speak very good English), I neighbourhood. There was trust and they’re not now eyeing you with deep
asked the young Berliner what he respect. There was a real sense of suspicion. They may even join you.
thought about this seemingly never community and togetherness. It was Watch the kids play in the street. Dream
ending change. He smiled and said, instantly alluring, and heart warming to of how it could be. I’m lucky enough to
“But it will always be home”. see. have seen the reality... I
By contrast, Freiburg felt smart, green, So here’s a thought. Far be it from me Dan Roberts
cool and confident. The rebuilt city to suggest you deprive deserving folk a
centre, all but flattened during WWII, living but, instead of driving your car to Images of Berlin
6 | Mar / Apr

7. Freiburg – the sustainable city
n October 2008, Andrew Purvis for the development measures can help reduce relationships and community spirit when
I Observer wrote an article asking the
question; ‘Is Freiburg the greenest City
in the world? It is described variously as
the amount of carbon emissions generated
and reduce energy usage. The measures
adopted and the lifestyle and communities
designing in shared open space, communal
facilities like restricting use of vehicles in
residential areas, providing a pizza oven for
‘the Green City’, ‘the Most Sustainable created in Freiburg are completely alien to community gatherings and allowing children
City’ and a ‘Model City’. the life I live in England, yet one that, as to play freely and giving residents more
planners, we need to incorporate into opportunity to meet and interact. However, I
At the end of March, a group of students planning for the future. Freiburg screams did wonder if you lived here this might get a
from the Birmingham City University MA ‘sustainability’; From incorporating bit too much at times, and you would crave a
Spatial Planning Course, together with a sustainable transport strategies to bit of solitude’. Jen Towers
handful of RTPI planners, visited Freiburg adapting the existing 1960’s housing stock
to find out. Here are some of the students’ the city of Freiburg has demonstrated that Regeneration and recovery. I really hadn’t
impressions. cities can become sustainable, that what expected to be looking back to the past so
we do today can meet the needs of future much or feeling so much discomfort at
Freiburg: A green city for people. Freiburg societies’. Vicky Stone discovering the full effects of Allied
rebuilt their city after the Second World War bombing in Freiburg - almost total
like other cities in Europe. But Freiburg has destruction, as the ‘before, during and
done something extraordinary, something after’ maps and photographs made clear.
green and unique to be proud of. Freiburg But the determination of the city to
didn’t build for cars, but built for people: recover, following old layouts and forms
Bike lanes, pedestrian streets, fantastic but rebuilding and planting for the future,
trams and small canals that run down the with sustainability in mind, was very
central city’s streets. Freiburg is called the impressive’. Ruth Benson
solar city because of its unusual work with
solar panels based every where on the roofs Bedlam of Bikes. Freiburg has set the
of houses, churches, schools, city halls- and global standards for encouraging,
the inspiring work in SC Freiburg football supporting and implementing sustainable
stadium. There is a high level of forms of transport. It appears that the city
understanding of sustainability culture in planning transport strategy has placed an
Freiburg’s people and their commitments. emphasis on facilitating cycling as the key
Simply, this makes Freiburg an outstanding mode of sustainable transport due to the
city for people. Heyam Kesham sheer volume of bikes on the streets of
Achieving social equity. In Freiburg social Freiburg. In many areas there was a
Transport integration. The first thing I equity is the most obvious aspect of constant stream of bikes, users of differing
noticed on arriving at the station in Brundtland’s tripartite definition of ages, doing differing speeds and with
Freiburg was how seamlessly integrated sustainability. When walking through the differing needs. However, whilst the
different forms of transport were. Placing settlement there is an unmistakable feeling highway layout has been designed to
my suitcase on a conveniently positioned of community; from the communal pizza segregate cyclists and pedestrians, as a
conveyor belt running parallel to the steps oven to the well used (and well visitor to the area (not being familiar with
leading to a bridge above the station on maintained) play area. There are toys the highway layout), there was almost a
which a tram took us to our hotel. This casually cluttering the public space and conflict over the use of public space
ease of movement theme continued with people on bikes and scooter at every between the pedestrian and the cyclist. At
bicycles seemingly the only form of viewpoint. The design of the settlement times you could not walk on the pavements
transportation to take priority over facilitates social interaction and the people without feeling overwhelmed by the
pedestrians. The sustainability culture has of Freiburg have embraced this opportunity number of bikes and without our highway
been instilled into Freiburg’s inhabitants and the notion of communal living has safety being compromised’. Vicky Stone
over generations. They also possess a become a way a life. How this concept
willingness to share space and interact could be transferred to the UK? In order to
with each other rather than fence off land create a sustainable city there needs to be
as domestic gardens increasing social active participation by local residents and
cohesion. Freiburg is unlike anything I’ve a passion to embrace community values.
experienced in the UK. It serves as an As planners we need to ensure that we are
example of what could be achieved. Pete building not just homes, but communities
Attwell for the future. Rosie Paget
A new utopia? Are the new Freiburg
districts of Vauban and Rieselfeld really
‘sustainable development utopia’, or can
we find our own UK ways of achieving zero
carbon living? It seemed that even poorly
built postwar ‘modernist’ buildings can be
made into new sustainable and attractive
homes if there is enough will. With
building sites and a good buzz everywhere,
A Sustainable City. Freiburg is an amazing Building a community. It felt like they had sustainable urban regeneration and
city. The city planners have demonstrated really thought about and been considerate development was clearly helping the
how the implementation of sustainable to building community and promoting strong German economy’. Ruth Benson I
7 | Mar / Apr

8. Child’s Play
ny urban designer will tell you, garden needed to have a purpose Year 5 and 6 were able to develop
A it’s a dream when a client
approaches you with a project
where a single mark is yet to be made
that made it relevant and useful to
the local community. The key to
informing how that would be
this further and take the emotions
they wanted to feel and design a
garden around this theme. Building
on the paper and you are involved encouraged was inspired by the on this and by producing 3D models,
right at the beginning. For someone geography of the site: it lies in close drawings and songs, all groups
like me, with an aptitude for proximity to five infant and junior created ideas for gardens that could
engaging communities in the schools that had agreed to take part provide learning resources for
planning and design process and for in the design process. We would different lessons and effectively ‘take
working with young people, if that design a Learning Garden that would the classroom outside’.
client also says “and by the way, we be frequented by school pupils, their
want the design to be community-led teachers, parents and family. The next stage is to interpret these
and engage local schools” then it’s a ideas into something real by working
heaven-sent opportunity. Crucially, all parties were on board with the landscape designers.
with this concept and this provided Facilitating that is a skill in itself. One
This was the case when I became the framework for designing the group of pupils wanted a “Tree
involved with a housing association content of the school engagement Protector”, a giant pea-like character
that owns a piece of grassed land in activity days, which would take place to watch over the garden and look
Walsall where Caldmore Village on three separate days with Year 2 after people while they are there -
Festival takes place each spring. The pupils (ages 6-7) and Year 5 and 6 perhaps not all that dissimilar to the
land remains fenced off and unused pupils (ages 9-11). volunteer City Centre Ambassadors
for the rest of the year – with the who are so effective in caring for
exception of a range of anti-social The beauty of working with young Sheffield’s people and award-winning
behaviour. people of these age groups is that public realm?
their creativity is largely unfettered
The housing association wanted to by peer groups or being expected to Its very early days in this project,
change this by designing a community be sensible. This makes them which is precisely why the public
garden, accessible to all and owned by fantastic people to generate ideas for participation has the scope to be so
all. But how to achieve this without designers to use as a starting point. influential and contribute towards a
creating a space where anti-social By making the activities fun and local resource that is much loved and
behaviour could continue as it does allowing for expression according owned by the community. Watch this
presently without locking it away personal ability and flair every school space. I
behind security fences and gates? event produced measurable,
meaningful raw data that we can start Katy Craddock
The answer lay in ‘self-policing’ – to build up into a design. Urban Designer and Community
creating a place that feels safe Facilitator
because it is well populated and Year 2 pupils focussed on expressing Planning Aid West Midlands Regional
regularly used. For this to happen the how they wanted to feel in a garden. Advisory Panel and volunteer
8 | Mar / Apr

9. Managing Environmental
Change at the Rural Urban Fringe
his 18 month research project1, grounded, accessible and intelligible yet 5. Connect policies across scales and
T involving 20 researchers and
practitioners from 11
organisations/institutions, recently reported
robust and credible outputs.
One high profile output that engaged the
sectors in order to secure joined-up
planning. The rural-urban fringe crosses
many boundaries and consequently can
on 29th February at Birmingham, City imagination of media, professionals and be marginalised and/or under-resourced.
University. A workshop format showcased publics alike was Rufopoly. Conceived as an 6. Think about the long term in policy-
the research outputs through an innovative accessible and fun learning tool it allows making about the fringe. Strategies need
series of policy brief videos made by the players to make a hypothetical journey to build confidence for long term
team. These videos captured the key themes through Rufshire answering similar questions investment that will realise new
of the research which used a series of that the project team faced over the course of opportunities. Current planning cycles are
workshops and visioning exercises in their research journey. Through the roll of a too short term and political, leading to
Hampton (near Peterborough) and North die, people are engaging with complex messy uncertainty.
Worcestershire as the principal evidence problems which characterise the rural-urban 7. Learn from the past in order to plan for
base. Uniquely, the event made use of Cisco fringe and their decisions allow them to the future. We often fail to have adequate
Web Ex to allow over 150 delegates to construct (and reflect on) their own visions. mechanisms to capture this institutional
participate and interact in an exciting blend and human capital. The abolition of
of video, plenary and keynote activities. Eight key lessons emerged from the regional planning provides a salutatory
workshop with the need to:- lesson here.
• Re-discovering the rural urban fringe 8. The way we value the rural-urban fringe is
• Reconnecting the built and natural 1. Identify the rural-urban fringe as an complex and messy but those values
environment divide in the rural urban fringe opportunity space - based on an need to be unpacked using inclusive and
• Understanding connections by crossing assessment of the needs of the people, effective mechanisms. There is a danger
boundaries in the rural urban fringe place and environment of the fringe itself. that we only value what we measure as
• Managing contested values in the rural 2. Consider proactively the rural component opposed to measure what we value.
urban fringe of the fringe rather than conventional Moving away from hard economically
• Adapting for the long-term in the rural reactive, urban-centric ideas. driven data is important as many aspects
urban fringe2 3. Link the institutional architecture of the built of the fringe that are most valued escape
and natural environment more effectively or refute monetary measure. I
This interdisciplinary research focussed on moving away from the policy disintegration
improving the foundation for decision making evident between DCLG and Defra. Green Alister Scott and Claudia Carter
in the rural-urban fringe; a forgotten space. Infrastructure and Community Infrastructure Birmingham City University
A conceptual bridge was developed through Levy have considerable potential here. ––––––––––––––––––
academics and practitioners working 4. Reduce jargon to more understandable
together to link the disparate areas of spatial language so that other professional 1 ESRC –RELU grant, Number ES/H037217/1
planning and the ecosystem approach. The sectors and the public can interact and 2 Videos can be accessed via web site
importance of working together as one team participate more effectively. The www.bcu.ac.uk/research/-centres-of-
organically within a managed research development of our videos/Rufopoly excellence/centre-for-environment-and-
process enabled what we believe is helps facilitate this. society/projects/relu/policy-briefs
The Sustainable Urban Neighbourhoods
Network (SUNN) Publishes Final Report
UNN was established in 2009 by the councilors, local government officers, • Stress on the importance of a large
S Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) to
explore first hand the experience of
developing new urban neighbourhoods in
architects and planners, land owners and
developers, community activists and staff
from housing associations.
spatial planning framework to underpin
community building;
England. Based on ‘looking and learning’ in • Demonstrating the crucial importance of
thirteen new communities in ten English SUNN’S report looks at the design of local vision and leadership in the local
towns and cities, the report shows how to sustainable urban neighbourhoods, authority; and
build more homes, better neighbourhoods summarising what SUNN learnt from a review
and stronger communities in both growth of existing research and during field visits. • Highlighting good practice in design, local
and regeneration areas. This learning is summarised in a series of governance, community facilities,
‘tests and guidelines’ for new communities. management of public space, retail
Most SUNN new communities are urban The report also focuses on how local partners provision and long-term stewardship.
extensions, mainly on brownfield sites, but in the development process can work better
some also involve estate renewal. Each together to foster localism and realise the SUNN’s final report can be downloaded for
community is at least partially constructed aspirations of the National Planning Policy free from the website of the JRF in a short
and new residents have moved in, giving a Framework. Finally the report sets out and a long version: www.jrf.org.uk/
sound empirical base for drawing recommendations for government and other publications/local-government-sustainable-
conclusions based on full and frank organisations arising from the analysis. urban-neighbourhoods. I
discussion within SUNN about what works
and what doesn’t in the development of The key findings of the report include: Michael Vout
sustainable urban neighbourhoods. Chair of West Midlands
Representatives from the neighbourhoods • Identification of the characteristics of a RTPI Urban Design Network
that participate in SUNN include local sustainable urban neighbourhood;
9 | Mar / Apr

10. Planning Aid England
lanning Aid in the West Midlands Towards the end of March we also held Changes in the national contract have
P has been making good progress
towards meeting both its own
Business Plan objectives, and its share
a very successful (and over subscribed)
event for community groups, Parish and
Town Councils - “Are You Fit for
also coincided with changes here In the
West Midlands. Bob Keith, the RTPI’s
“outreach co-ordinator” who has worked
of the national outputs agreed with Neighbourhood Planning”, which so hard in this region to keep Planning
DCLG in respect of the contract grant. generated considerable interest not only Aid a credible concept, is now leaving to
in the potential of neighbourhood take up a policy planning post with
While the National Advice Line has planning, but also in the role which Daventry District Council. I know that
continued to provide an essential other parts of the local planning system Bob has many regrets about leaving at
service for development related have to play and the importance of this stage, and has said that he hopes to
enquiries, we have been reaching out to community engagement in these. continue to support Planning Aid in a
local authorities and communities reduced capacity. Through this article, I
interested in neighbourhood planning. Future progress nationally had been would like to thank Bob, on behalf of the
This has included very well received uncertain, despite the best efforts of the Regional Activities Committee, for the
talks to community forums, parish and Institute, following the end of the current progress which he has made, and to
town councils, initially those in government funding contract for Planning wish him all the best for his new role.
neighbourhood planning front runners Aid at the end of March. At the time of
across the region in places such as writing though, ministerial approval had The RAC’s Planning Aid Sub-group will
Shropshire, Telford, Wolverhampton and just been given for a four month be meeting shortly to consider the
Birmingham, but also where possible extension of the contract, pending a implications of all these changes (Ed.
focussing on our objective of helping fuller review of funding objectives and Including the implications arising from
the 20% most deprived communities. mechanisms by DCLG. The RTPI has had the Stop Press article below), and we will
verbal confirmation of the extension and keep you in touch through this column.
These discussions have been is awaiting written confirmation and a
supplemented with approaches to local formal contract. This means that for the In the meantime if you are interested in
authorities setting out the contribution immediate future, activity on community becoming a volunteer, then please still
which Planning Aid volunteers can make and neighbourhood planning support will register on the Planning website:
towards their own developing continue once the contract is in place and www.rtpi.org.uk/planningaid/volunteer/
obligations on neighbourhood planning, staff are reemployed, in addition to the how_to_apply/ I
although this has been less successful National Advice Line which the RTPI had
(something which local authority already agreed to maintain. Please check Dave Marr
readers might like to discuss within www.rtpi.org.uk/planningaid for updated Chairman of the
their organisations). news and developments. WM Planning Aid Sub-Group
Planning Aid – Stop press
CLG has formally agreed the four Overall, our new contract will mean that undertaken to do this. The Institute is
D month continuation to their grant
to the RTPI under the Supporting
Communities and Neighbourhoods in
we will widen the offer of support to
include the ‘Wave 5’ Front Runners, which
brings the total of Front Runner areas to
appointing staff to support the contract
continuation and will be shortly
announcing, in more detail, both the
Planning scheme. The grant period has 233. We will be aiming to help these staffing structure and working
now been extended until 31 July 2012 communities to ‘get over the line’ and to arrangements. I
and the focus of the work has been make measurable progress towards
modified to reflect the final provisions getting neighbourhood plans in place. Professor Gavin Parker MRTPI
of the Localism Act and in light of the Director of Professional Standards
new Neighbourhood Planning powers DCLG would not fund the PAE advice line Royal Town Planning Institute
that have come into effect. during this period but RTPI has
For the next four months Planning Aid
England (PAE), working with Planning
Aid for London, will focus more on what
Front Runner communities need to help
them to progress their neighbourhood
plans. Importantly, we were also able to
persuade the Department to fund
supporting communities within the top
20% of the Index of Multiple
Deprivation, to engage in planning their
area. In this way we can ensure that all
communities have a voice and an
opportunity to influence plans using the
new powers.
10 | Mar / Apr

11. RTPI launches Map for England debate
he RTPI has recently launched a approach to planning infrastructure and Additional benefits of a ‘Map for
T debate on the benefits of having a
‘Map for England’ to plan
infrastructure and services and to
services, perhaps by way of a single
portal. We are launching a debate on
this proposal to see if others share our
England’ include:
• Helping to boost growth. Housing,
enable decision makers at the local views and to ask what mapping industry and business would be able
level to make more informed policy information should be included.” to make quicker and better informed
choices. investment decisions which are more
A Map for England would also help to closely aligned to public sector
New research commissioned by the RTPI meet the pledge in the Coalition infrastructure funding plans.
from Manchester University shows that Agreement that data published by
individual government departments now public bodies is published in an open • Being much more transparent. Local
have more than 100 major maps for and standardised format. communities would be able to find
England relating to policies and Stakeholders are being encouraged to out about how government plans
programmes on the economy, transport, send their views on 5 key questions affect their areas and to influence
communications, housing and the about the initiative and can do so by them.
environment. None are available in one going to www.mapforengland.co.uk.
place or through a single data source • Saving time and money. When
and can be very difficult to find as they Analysis by the Centre for Urban Studies writing new strategies, government
are scattered across web sites and at Manchester University reveals that in departments could see the existing
within departmental reports. fully 2/3 of maps the implications for plans for different parts of the
different places are not made explicit. country and relate their new
The RTPI President, Colin Haylock By overlaying a number of these maps strategies to them. Datasets drive
argues that with a Map for England and diagrams together, the researchers innovation.
policy makers could make better demonstrated that some policies and
judgments about how individual policy programmes, when considered against • Helping to coordinate infrastructure
proposals interact with and affect each other in relation to different parts across borders with Scotland and
development of the country as a whole. of the country, may have unintended Wales.
He feels that such an initiative would consequences, eg. the study revealed
also increase consistency in the that there is considerable overlap Throughout the rest of 2012 the RTPI
appraisal of policy, improve security and between broad areas where housing will be holding various events to
resilience, and provide a better growth is projected in the future and stimulate a debate on the Map for
understanding of sectoral issues that where there are the greatest England. Join the debate on the Map for
might complement or conflict with each environmental and policy constraints to England on Twitter @rtpiplanners or
other. growth. These constraints include the #map4england. I
risk of flooding and expected future
Colin said “A Map for England offers the household water shortages. John Acres
opportunity of a truly joined up Editor
RTPI Planning Leaders Award
Are you a leader who is making a successful manager leading a planning and Nations Panel representatives and
difference in planning? team. We want to celebrate leadership past presidents.
in all its different forms and we are
he RTPI is celebrating the success keen to receive nominations from What happens if you win?
T of planners who are leading the
profession in creating great places
to live and work. The success of our
planners at different stages in their
careers. You will be presented with a framed
certificate by the RTPI President as part
profession is due to the hard work, There will be one award winner in each of his Presidential visit to the Annual
dedication and professionalism of our RTPI Region. Ball in July. You will also be nationally
members. RTPI President Colin Haylock recognised in Planning Magazine and in
has launched the Planning Leaders How are the winners selected? your Region.
Awards to celebrate members who are
leading and inspiring the profession, Members are asked to nominate How do I enter?
creating the places of tomorrow. candidates by region. Each candidate
will fill in a nomination form setting out All you need to do is complete the
Who are the awards for? their achievements. The nominations attached nomination form and send it
will then be reviewed by a judging panel through to Charles Veal
The awards are open to any RTPI and a winner selected. (charles.veal@rtpi.org.uk). If you have
member who can demonstrate any questions or queries please contact
outstanding leadership in the field of The judging panel 020 7929 9477. Please return all
planning. You could be new to the completed nomination forms by 18th
profession and making your mark with a The judging panel will be made up of May 2012. I
great project, or maybe you are a General Assembly members, Regions
11 | Mar / Apr

12. David Jones: 1952–2012
any planners around the region who David did this for nearly 30 years and his worked for him. So, while he developed a
M have worked with David or know of
his work for Stratford-on-Avon
District Council, will be saddened to hear of
work was acknowledged by colleagues,
councillors and developers alike for being
thorough and meticulous. At Planning
comprehensive computer database of
housing applications, he also kept using his
tried and trusted manual reference system.
his death after a short illness. Inquiries, while various parties would argue
the toss over how figures were interpreted, David gave advice and support to many
David started at the District Council back in they knew the figures themselves were colleagues in other local authorities who did
1974 before going to Belfast University to accurate – because David Jones had similar work – and this was greatly
gain his Masters Degree and returning to produced them. He had many enjoyable appreciated.
take up a planner post in 1979. David’s work times at Public Inquiries defending his work!
took up a large part of his life. He was David was an invaluable member of the
invariably first in and often one of the last to David embraced new Information Technology District Council’s Planning Policy Team.
leave the office each day because he was – he knew what it could do but he wasn’t a People came and went but he was the
dedicated to what he did. slave to it. He also used the old methods that foundation stone around which we worked –
providing extensive knowledge of the local
David particularly enjoyed the opportunity to area.
contribute to projects that made a difference
to the quality of the environment around us. He was also the Royal Town Planning
His involvement in the Cotswolds Area of Institute’s Office Convenor at the District
Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Council for many years – circulating
Plan and the Sub-Regional Habitat information and the regional magazine to
Biodiversity Action Plan are two such areas of colleagues in the office. The RTPI places on
work which gave him much satisfaction record its thanks to David for his service in
because he loved the countryside and this capacity.
wildlife.
David’s colleagues at the District Council
But David’s main area of work – for which (past and present) - and from many other
many of us will remember him by – was local authorities and organisations - will miss
housing monitoring. Now that may sound his wisdom, experience, support and calm
rather boring to many of us but someone has presence. Above all, we will miss him as a
to do it and it is a critical part of a local friend. I
authority planning service – how many
houses have got planning permission, have David Jones: 1952–2012. Paul Harris
been built, and how many more are needed?
Continuing Professional Development
: : : : : : : : : : Ev e n t s Ca l e n d a r : : M a y > J un e : : : : : : : : : :
Cost: £50 + VAT for RTPI members, £60 + VAT for THURSDAY 17 MAY
REGIONAL PROGRAMME non-members. Less if purchased as part of the 2012 RTPI/MPA Minerals Planning Conference
Non-members of RTPI welcome to attend RTPI West Midlands 2012 Season Ticket Venue: Edgbaston Cricket Ground, Birmingham
Programme. Full-time students & the unwaged £20 Cost: £140/£150 + VAT
WEDNESDAY 16 MAY + VAT. Organisers: RTPI & MPA
LEPs & Regeneration Details & bookings: Sue Griffith-Jones Details: catherine.middleton@rtpi.org.uk
Venue: The Council House, Lichfield Street, Walsall Tel 0121 709 1599 To Book: Tel 020 7963 8003; Fax 020 7963 8001;
Time: Afternoon (includes lunch) Email westmidlands@rtpi.org.uk Email: mary.burling@mineralproducts.org
Cost: £50 + VAT for RTPI members, £60 + VAT for
non-members. Less if purchased as part of the RTPI WEDNESDAY 20 JUNE THURSDAY 17 MAY
West Midlands 2012 Season Ticket Programme. Full- The Role of Councillors in ensuring Quality Design Learning from the Olympics
time students & the unwaged £20 + VAT. Venue: Council Chamber, Lichfield A Landscape Institute event open to all.
Details & bookings: Sue Griffith-Jones Time: Afternoon (includes lunch) Venue: Department of Architecture, Birmingham
Tel 0121 709 1599 Cost: £50 + VAT for RTPI members, £60 + VAT for Institute of Art & Design
Email westmidlands@rtpi.org.uk non-members. Less if purchased as part of the Holte Street, Birmingham
RTPI West Midlands 2012 Season Ticket Time: 7.15pm – 8.45pm
MONDAY 21 MAY Programme. Full-time students & the unwaged £20 Cost: TBC
RTPI West Midlands AGM + VAT. Organiser: Landscape Institute Midlands Region
plus presentation on NPPF & Related Matters by Details & bookings: Sue Griffith-Jones Details: Sue Griffith-Jones
Andrew Matheson, RTPI Development Planning Tel 0121 709 1599 Email: westmidlands@rtpi.org.uk
Network Manager. Email westmidlands@rtpi.org.uk
Refreshments provided. WEDNESDAY 27 JUNE
Venue: The Welcome Centre, Parkside, Coventry OTHER EVENTS 2012 Planning Convention
Time: Evening Planning 2012: Making It Work!!!
Cost: Free TUESDAY 15 MAY Venue: The Royal Society of Medicine, One
Details & bookings: Sue Griffith-Jones A new approach to Community Engagement Wimpole St, London
Tel 0121 709 1599 Venue: Royal Haskoning, Rightwell House, Bretton, Cost: RTPI member £195 + VAT, non-member £295
Email westmidlands@rtpi.org.uk Peterborough + VAT. Some reduced price places for students &
Time: 9.30am – 1pm licentiates.
MONDAY 1 JUNE Cost: £30 + VAT Organiser: RTPI
NPPF & The Future of Strategic Planning Organiser: RTPI East Midlands Details: www.theplanningconvention.co.uk
Venue: The Council House, Lichfield Street, Walsall Details: Sue Slack Email eastmidlands@rtpi.org.uk To Book: Tel 0845 082 1171
Time: Afternoon (includes lunch) Email: services@rtpiconferences.co.uk
Charity Registration Number: 262865 • Scottish Charity Registration Number: SC 037841 • Registered Office Address Royal Town Planning Institute 41 Botolph Lane London EC3R 8DL.

13. On your marks, get set… GO!
On your marks, get set… GO!
ks
RTPI West Midlands is proud to present the
RTPI West Midlands is proud to present the
T
West Midlands Summer of Sport Ball
West Midlands Summer of Sport Ball
rt
What:
What: RTPI Planning Awards Ceremony,
Dinner and Ball
When: Friday 13 July 2012 7pm to 1am
Where:
Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens,
Westbourne Road, Edgbaston,
Birmingham, B15 3TR
Who: The RTPI President, Colin Haylock, joins
RTPI members, guests, friends and family
Why:
Why: To celebrate planning excellence in the
region and wine and dine in style
Dress:
Dress: Black Tie. We hope you can make this
event to enjoy the good food, the great
company, the fun evening and the live
music
Awards and Submissions
Awards Submissions
To be in with a chance of winning an award fo planning excellence, please submit your nominations by 18 May. Entries
or
o
are to be no more than 1,000 words or 2 sides of A4, including any illustrations and examples of projects if applicable.
(details below).
Tables
Tables and Tickets
Tickets
Book your ticket now and enjoy this exclusive event at an early bird rate of £45 per ticket or £450 for a table of 10
(all costs inclusive of VAT). Please note that ticket prices will increase from 15 June. To reserve your place, please email to
westmidlands@rtpi.org.uk or call 0121 709 1599. Please book early to avoid disappointment, we anticipate demand will
westmidlands@rtpi.org.uk
be high for this event.
Sponsorship Main Sponsor of the Event
f h Best Consultancy Award and
y
Drinks on Arrival Sponsor
k
Thank you to all our sponsors, listed
below, we really appreciate your support
of this fa astic event. Sponsorship
ant
opportunities are still available please
email Sue Griffith-Jones for further details.
Sue Griffith-Jones
Regional Award for Planning
for Chairman’s Award Best Local Authority A ard
uthority Aw
th ity
Achievement

14. RTPI WEST MIDLANDS
SUMMER BALL – SUMMER OF SPORT
13th July 2012 Botanical Gardens, Birmingham
The following awards will be presented:
- The Regional Award for Planning Achievement sponsored by Alliance Planning
- The Chairman’s Award sponsored by DLA Piper
- Local Planning Authority of the Year sponsored by JMP
- Consultancy of the Year sponsored by No5 Chambers
- Team of the Year
- Young Planner of the Year
Plus, a new award for 2012, Planning Leaders Award
NOMINATIONS ARE INVITED FOR:
LOCAL PLANNING CONSULTANCY OF THE TEAM OF THE YEAR YOUNG PLANNER OF PLANNING LEADERS
AUTHORITY OF YEAR THE YEAR AWARD
THE YEAR
Local Authority Consultants - It has Have you been in a This award is intended Planning creates
Planners – been a difficult year team or do you know to celebrate Young great places to live
Have you excelled? and yet there are a team that has Planners in the West and work. The
Consultants – many good news delivered (a Midlands. successes of our
Have you found an stories. project, plan or This could be in profession are due to
LPA excellent What has your planning document)? planning practice, the hard work,
to work with? consultancy The team can be a innovation, dedication and
There are many achieved? Tell us why LPA, Regeneration enterprise or professionalism of our
examples of your consultancy has body, Consultancy. philosophy. members. The
good local succeeded. In a challenging Nominations are Planning Leaders
authorities and it is Local Authority time co-operation welcomed for the Awards celebrates
our desire to Planners – and collaboration is brightest Young RTPI members who
recognise the hard Who are the encouraged. Planner involved in the are leading and
work that goes on consultants you We are looking for a profession in the West inspiring the
within Planning have used or worked team that has Midlands. profession and
Departments in the with who have produced the goods Nominees must be 35 creating the places
region. excelled? and delivered or under. of tomorrow.
We are looking to something of quality The initiative is led by
celebrate that will last into the President Colin
success stories from future. Haylock and follows
the region and those If you are proud of on from the
who have delivered. something you have successful Today’s
done and work you and Tomorrow’s
have achieved let us Leaders Awards. It
know. will spotlight and
recognise the
achievements of
planners in each UK
Region and Nation
who have shown
outstanding
leadership qualities.

15. HOW TO MAKE A NOMINATION:
In not more than 1,000 words or 2 sides of A4 (and using illustrations and examples of
projects, if applicable), send your nominations to Sue Griffith-Jones at
westmidlands@rtpi.org.uk
For the Planning Leaders Award, please go to:
http://www.rtpi.org.uk/download/14405/Planning Leaders Award Nomination Form.pdf for the
nomination form. This form should be returned to Sue Griffith-Jones at
westmidlands@rtpi.org.uk
DEADLINE FRIDAY 18th MAY 2012