Pathways to Planning: Case studies

Having gained a degree in Geography and Town Planning I did not fully understand what planning actually looked like in daily practice or the day-to-day responsibilities of a planning officer. Fortunately, after two years of service within the planning department in Barnet, I have learned how to assess minor planning applications, write appeal statements as well as offer pre-application advice to customers. I have also had the opportunity to work with the planning enforcement team which is a fantastic opportunity to engage closely with local residents to ensure alleged breaches of planning control are investigated and retain the integrity of the planning system.

One of the aspects that make planning so exciting is the complexity and variety that it offers. Planners often have to make recommendations based on policy while also considering competing interests between different groups. These groups often involve engaging with architects, highways officers, conservation officers and the general public to ensure a positive outcome is reached.

The Barnet planning department are the most friendly, approachable people you will ever work with where colleagues are always willing to help and answer any questions. For any anyone who has an interest in the built environment and making a difference to the lives of local residents, this job is definitely for you.

Having migrated from another country, my planning knowledge was limited and very different to the English planning laws and policies. I am in awe at how the planning system works - the English planning laws and policies, the level of engagement within different departments and the residents before a development gets approved, nothing like what I expected. As a planning officer, I have worked on a varied range of applications, providing advice and support to homeowners and developers to achieve sustainable homes and communities.

I am very fortunate to be able to do the work I love, and with the support of an amazing team of colleagues and managers. Currently, I am working on two really exciting major projects, one is for a new Imperial college for maths. If approved, Barnet it will be the only borough in North London to be able to provide students places within this prestigious college. Another interesting project is a housing development of 35 new homes of mixed tenure. This project will bring forward the much needed family homes of 2-bed and 3-bed and will provide over 40% towards affordable housing, part of which will be allocated for social housing. 

I believe that a Town Planner has the necessary tools to make a difference to the community we live in and most importantly create sustainable homes that have a positive effect on the environment.

With over 20 years of local planning authority experience in DM (Development Management) I continue to find the work both exciting and challenging. The diverse nature of the work is thought provoking and gives me a real sense of achievement, particularly when the development has been completed and S106 agreements secured. As a profession, we are shaping the built environment of Barnet for the better, with a strong emphasis on high quality design and the protection of the natural and historic environment without compromising highway safety. The aim of achieving a carbon net zero for the borough by 2042, is also fundamental to this work. A good example of this work is found at 45 - 47 Friern Barnet Road (see application 21/6002/FUL), where a derelict site has recently been redeveloped to provide decent homes for the local community, with off-site improvements also secured. This has made a positive difference to the local community.

What other profession offers such diversity and challenges, while making a significant contribution to the local community? Working within a friendly and engaging team environment at Barnet makes this whole process easier.

Ironically my journey into planning has been more of an accident rather than a planned decision. Prior to this, the planning world was a generic idea to me with a broad understanding of it being a regulatory body, looking after development, to allow for controlled and sustainable development in the country.

The journey has been interesting, with ample of learning opportunities. There has never been a dull moment, with each application that came my way, opening a new avenue into planning aspects. Every decision made within the applications I handled have always upheld harmony to an existing character of the surrounding area with due consideration to the impact the development has on neighbouring amenity. From these, some worth mentioning include the case that prevented the conversion of an existing community use into shops and offices. I am also glad that I can make a difference by coming up with alternate solutions to help customers achieve what they have in mind. This has been demonstrated in a case which was refused several times, but finally amended to comply with planning policies. The efforts involved to make a happy customer along with adhering to the required planning policies is indeed satisfying.

If you are looking for an opportunity to have a fulfilling career, be assured that the field of planning will provide you an exhilarating platform to challenge yourself and provide sustainable and futuristic solutions. It also offers you great scope for growth and a sense of achievement.

My journey in planning has been an enjoyable one thanks to the great work environment we have in the Barnet Planning Team. Barnet council’s planning team is a fantastic place to work at, with approachable colleagues, open to sharing knowledge. The department has a friendly atmosphere being inclusive with a mixed group in terms of ethnicity, age and gender.

I retrained as a planner following a break from working to raise a family.  I was unsure what to expect when joining Barnet’s planning department as I had never worked in the public sector before, but was pleasantly surprised by how approachable and supportive all my colleagues were, including senior staff. As a parent, I found management to be sympathetic and flexible in helping me balance work with family commitments.

The job allows you to learn and progress very quickly, as the work is so varied. Managers are generous with their time in showing you the ropes and explaining new concepts. They will also take on board your particular areas of interest and try to provide opportunities for you to develop those.

For anyone with an interest in architecture, construction and the built environment, a planning career is fulfilling and stimulating and allows you to engage with important current issues in a meaningful way. As a planning assistant I have mostly been involved with small home projects, but it has nevertheless been rewarding to be able to assist people in achieving their home improvements in a way that is beneficial to them and that also takes into account the impact on the wider area.

I had never worked in Planning before, but researched the industry in detail before knowing it was the career for me. I would say mostly, yes it has been what I had anticipated. What I love is that no day is the same and there is always something new to learn. 

I work in an enforcement environment, so it is rewarding to know that with all the cases I work on, I am making sure that policies and legislation, both at local Council and wider national level are being adhered to. With this role, there are two sides to the breach but the impact on residents is that we can establish firstly where a breach of planning control has occurred and then work to resolve any breach. Cases are varied and can be anything from a change of use to biodiversity issues on larger development sites or ensuring that listed buildings are protected, and unauthorised works are reversed. 

I would say yes, any case that I work on, I know I have made a difference. Whether it is as simple as establishing that no breach has occurred, or serving an Enforcement Notice on an unauthorised development, I know that the work I have put in has ensured a correct decision to be made. 

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council is a great place to work with a wide range of benefits. Everyone within the planning department is friendly and always willing to help, no question is ever too much. 

Working as a planning in local government means you are directly making a recommendation as to whether a development is acceptable in planning terms. If you want to make a difference and have an interest in shaping the places in which we live and the environments around us, then why wouldn’t you join the team.

Before I started working at BDBC I knew about the theoretical side of planning through studying a planning masters course however, I had limited knowledge of the practical side of working for a Local Planning Authority. The biggest difference has been understanding how important local politics is when making planning decisions. 

I also did not appreciate all the work that Planning Policy Teams do, it is much more than just producing the Local Plan! At Basingstoke and Deane we monitor our planning polices through the production of an Authority Monitoring Report every year that assesses how our Local Plan and Neighbourhood Plan policies are performing. We also continually assess sites through our Strategic Housing and Economic Land and Availability Assessment to look for potential development opportunities. There is also an array of guidance documents that we are responsible for updating or producing allowing the team to respond to continually changing planning landscape. We also support many town/parish councils through the process of neighbourhood planning, with 14 plans currently adopted a several more going through the process. 

There are lots of skills I did not expect to develop, relating mostly to the implementation of a more digital planning system. I have become a GIS lead in my team producing all the maps for the Local Plan as well as the creation of online interactive mapping systems. We have also recently purchased new consultation software to help enhance the profile and accessibility of planning policy consultations. 

During my time at the council I have been involved in supporting neighbourhood planning groups create their own neighbourhood plans. The process is mostly undertaken by the parish council who have to collect all the evidence and draft the plan themselves. In the planning policy team we provide support and guidance to help them through the process. If a plan meets a certain criterion, then the neighbourhood plan can help protect the area from unwanted development pressures. 

Through my work with neighbourhood planning groups, I feel as though I have helped to make a difference through successfully adopting their neighbourhood plans and overcoming any challenges that arise during the process. Residents become much more engaged the planning process when it is seeking to bring positive outcomes that are more frequently being addressed issues related to design and climate change.

Basingstoke and Deane is a friendly and supportive place to work, in my team I have been given the opportunity to get involved in any policy areas I have wanted to. As part of this I have had my own projects to manage and take accountability for. Moreover, I have had lots of training opportunities including attending the Young Planners Annual Conference to continue my professional development. Although we work in a hybrid manner, I started fully remote and have always been able to get help from my colleagues and had regular check ins to ensure I am on track with all my work. 

The council is a great place to work from a planning perspective, offering the chance to get exposure to regeneration projects in Basingstoke town centre as well as issues in the rural villages in the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

Planning is an exciting profession that is always changing. You will need to be able to respond to local changes as well as changes to national policy and legislation. However, it provides the opportunity to positively shape the places which is incredibly rewarding, especially when you see development happening around you. By working in a local authority you get to know all the challenges and opportunities in your area and you can see how the place is evolving and the positive impacts this has on the residents. 

There are great career opportunities within planning through the various roles within policy and development management teams. The skills in which you learn from working at the council are transferable from report writing, to communicating with a wide range of people and stakeholders, technical skills relating to different software packages, as well as organisation and team working skills. There are various different teams across the council that will help with certain tasks and there is so much to learn from too.

The planning system always relies on Local Planning Authorities for the production of Local Plans and the determination of applications. If you are interested in planning it is best way to understand how the system works!

I didn’t know much about planning before I did my planning masters – I did geography for my undergraduate degree and when I was figuring out what career to pursue after I finished I had a conversation with a planner from a local authority. This encouraged me to apply for a town planning masters, as I was attracted to the idea of being able work in a sector that tangibly and positively influences local communities. 

The job has been different to what I expected, but only because I had never worked in planning before. I gained a good understanding of the theory of planning from the planning course, and although I did do some practical modules as well, it was different to planning in practice. I felt very well supported as a graduate learning the ropes at the council and learned a lot in a very short amount of time. 

I am currently working on a few projects, including applications for new dwellings and for retrofitting older homes with external wall insulation. 

Working on projects for building new dwellings helps towards the council’s objectives of delivering new homes in sustainable locations. By working together with applicants and stakeholders we ensure new developments are designed to minimise their environmental impact and contribute to meeting targets for reductions in carbon dioxide emissions, resulting in a more carbon neutral and climate resilient Bristol. 

Working on projects to retrofit homes with external wall insultation is a sustainable approach that enhances energy efficiency which not only reduces energy bills for residents, making their homes more affordable to maintain, but also aligns with the council’s environmental goals by lowering carbon emissions.

Being part of a dedicated team in local government that collaboratively works towards making a difference is rewarding. I enjoy being part of a sector that contributes towards shaping the city positively in a way that takes into account the needs of the community and the city’s broader long-term environmental goals. 

The Council is a great place to work. I appreciate that we have the opportunity for a good work/life balance that flexible working allows, which reflect the Council’s culture for staff well-being. The culture is positive and inclusive and there is a lovely team atmosphere within our department, where everyone is really friendly, supportive and happy to help each other out. The office is also in a lovely building which is central, next to Bristol Cathedral, so it’s nice to be able to go for a walk at lunch time or sit on College Green or Brandon Hill during the summer. 

Working in planning in local government can be challenging and fast paced, so it’s important to be well organised and adaptable, and to have good communication skills as the work involves communicating with various stakeholders (such as developers, residents, and local council members). It’s also important to stay informed and keep up to date on policies and regulations as they change. Even though the work can be challenging, being part of a great team makes a big difference, so making an effort to be part of the team is important and rewarding! 

I completed my masters in planning in 2019 but did not envision what day to day life as a public sector planner would look like. Although we are guided through national and local policy and extensive training, I did not anticipate how much variation of opinion there can be especially with more complex and unique applications. This can be challenging but ultimately adds variation to the role and enables you to have great influence on applications. 

Before becoming a planner, I did not realise how customer focussed the job would be, and the importance of effective communication. I try to attend site visits as much as I can to gain a better understanding of the application and site, and what outcomes may be achievable.

I have been working on an application for the external refurbishment of a large listed building in Clifton, where I have worked in depth with conservation and urban design officers to fine tune small details. There are so many factors that come into play, such as extensions of different ages, and previous applications for the site which were refused. Due to this it is important that this time we get something right for the homeowners. I have learned so much about conservation and protecting heritage assets in the process of this application and others.  

We manage our own caseload of applications, and with guidance from managers and support from our team we get to shape Bristol and influence the way places form. I have had great satisfaction from receiving an application and requesting amendments, to then see it get built first hand. I have learned so much surrounding Transport planning, urban design, and conservation, on more complex applications. Since working as a public sector planner, I feel like I am more aware of my surroundings and have a stronger appreciation for what comprises good design as I explore the city.

Working at City Hall beside college green means that there are lots of opportunities for socialising after work. There are lots of flexible workspaces, in addition to home working and flexible hours for peoples varied schedules and lifestyles.

The role comes with other opportunities to get out and about including attending site visits and planning committees. Last week our team went on a tour of Wapping Wharf and met with the site owner who has been masterminding the redevelopment and architect involved in their new proposed phases.

The team goes out of their way to provide mutual support and I have learnt so much from the different members of the department including senior and new staff. Now I have been able to put my own training to good use in supporting new members of the team.

I would recommend anyone to apply for a role as a public sector planner. I have learned the ins and outs of the planning process and worked with such a variety of different stakeholders, which I don’t believe I would have got in the private sector in such a short space of time.

Local government is somewhere I have always wanted to work after having family members work for the council. Although the public sector can be met with challenges, the atmosphere has been one that is very positive and supportive. The graduate team takes on a variety of people of different ages and experience levels.

I did not know a great deal before I started working at the council over 25 years ago in a support role. It is definitely different to what I expected!

I have been working on the Spurn Point Visitor Centre, in Kilnsea, which has helped improve visitor facilities and the visitor experience for the site and the local area. I am also working on a number of affordable housing schemes and extra care housing across the authority, which will help provide a range of housing for a wide range of residents living in the East Yorkshire. 

Yes, I do, I have had the opportunity to work of projects and applications that have helped improve and change appearance of the built environment and have been able to help mentor and grow new members of staff.

The team/department/Council is a great place to work, it’s a supportive and challenging environment which provides individuals the opportunity to learn and grow professionally and personally and the Council as a whole works towards creating a better East Riding for all residents. 

Planning is a challenging, enjoyable and fast paced job worth doing. 

I was always interested in the built environment and geography was my favourite subject throughout school which I then carried through into University. I was aware of Planning prior to starting to work in the role due to my father working in local government and dealing with the planning department as part of his role, however the breadth of applications that we deal with was different to what I had expected as you gain knowledge in a variety of fields and do not focus on a particular sector. 

I started my career doing both Development Management and Planning Enforcement which gave me a good grounding of both decision making and the basis of planning policy which underpins the whole process that we work to. I have dealt with everything from householder extensions, changes of use as well as new retail, commercial and residential development. 

I have been involved in many different projects over the years which brought different impacts and benefits. A recent one has involved the renovation of a major sports and community facility which is used by various sports and sports teams ranging from junior to adult. 

This was an important project for the local council who received significant funding from national government to spend within the Town. The development would provide a sports facility that could be used all year round by sports teams and the community and would increase the number of users and visits to the facility. While the development would ultimately impact users of the athletics track, a balancing act was required when making a determination and it was considered that although we acknowledged that the athletics provision would be less than existing, there was still a provision within the site and there were considerable benefits of the scheme that outweighed this. 

I do. One of the perks of the job is that you can see the ultimate outcome of an approved development whether this is through new the building of communities, new jobs being created or various other improvements to an area. It’s also important to get the right development in the right area and make those tough decisions to ensure developments conform with local and national policies. 

The team here at East Riding is split into different areas (East, West and Strategic) due to the large area we cover. However, all teams are interlinked and work well with each other with open dialogue and advice offered to Junior members and regular meetings to discuss applications and workloads. The Planning department is one of the busiest for applications in the country and is well resourced in order to meet the number of applications we receive. The department also offers university placements to gain additional education and help in working towards accredited membership of the RTPI. 

As a Unitary Authority, we also have various other departments within the wider Planning umbrella such as Highways, Nature Conservation, Building Conservation and Trees which is a huge benefit. There is a culture of giving staff the opportunities and support to challenge themselves and take on new opportunities, and to progress as their skills and experiences. Examples of this are a number of colleagues that have started at the entry level position (Assistant Planning Officer) and been successful in gaining promotions within the team to more Senior Planning roles or other roles within the department. 

The Council as a whole is a very flexible and good place to work. We offer hybrid working with flexible working arrangements in addition to the annual leave entitlements and other perks. There are also opportunities to meet with the Chief Executive and Executive Directors and updates are provided on wider Council matters via emails, in person or through other means such as newsletters. 

There are various ways of learning more about planning and local government. There are RTPI events where you can meet other planners, you can attend local council planning committee meetings which are open to the public (East Riding record their meetings and these are available on YouTube) and these will give you an insight into planning and its political dimensions or you can speak to your local planning authority and gain work experience.

I completed an MSc in Development Planning around 10 years ago, however I have only now, 10 years later, started to work in the field of Planning. I would say the work is roughly what I expected although there is still a lot to learn. 

I have recently been working on projects involving the upgrading of waste water treatment facilities, which will have an impact on local residents in terms of hopefully contributing towards the overall improvement of water quality in their area. 

I am grateful to work within a very supportive team who’s help and guidance has been incredible. 

Always ask questions!

My planning knowledge prior to starting at East Sussex County Council (ESCC) was solely academic. I had just completed my Masters in Town Planning so had background knowledge in topics such as coastal regeneration, development finance and viability and planning law. These modules provided me with a broad background knowledge to Planning. 

The planning course did not cover Minerals and Waste Planning so the types of applications dealt with at the ESCC were completely different to what I had learnt about however the skills I learnt, such as report writing, were transferrable. 

I was the case officer for a planning application to build a new Special Educational Needs school on a Greenfield site. This formed part of a wider housing development which was determined by the District Council. In dealing with the development for the new School it has provided a local facility for pupils with specific learning needs whereas before they were having to travel long distances to get the education they required. 

Yes, especially with the types of applications dealt with at the County Council. For example, we deal with applications on behalf of the County Council itself, such as applications for improvements to facilities including adult social care facilities, libraries, and schools. We also deal with Waste and Minerals applications which are a vital part of assisting with local growth i.e., minerals are required to build new homes and infrastructure and waste facilities are needed to deal with waste arisings from development. 

The Planning Policy & Development Management Team is a small and supportive team. Everyone is always willing to answer questions, work through issues to find a solution and generally share knowledge. 

With regards to the Council specifically, County Hall is a lovely place to work with lots of wellbeing and support services to offer. The Planning office has spectacular views looking across the Downs which is a bonus! .

Go for it. It is a very fulfilling career, and you get a great sense of achievement when you see developments that you work on being built out. 

I have been working in Planning since 1989 at both District and County level in Development Control and Enforcement. I was Enforcement Manager at Hastings Borough Council for twenty years before taking my present role which I absolutely love (genuinely!). Over the years, I have dealt with varied and major planning applications, all manner of enforcement cases and court proceedings. I rejoined East Sussex in 2022.

I am currently assisting with a re-introduction of a pro-active site monitoring programme for both waste and minerals sites in East Sussex. This enables early identification of problems to the benefit of people and the environment. It is something the Council must do. It also enables a level playing field between operators and encourages a dialogue between them and the Council.

Yes, definitely on a number of occasions throughout my career. In terms of my present role, making the difference often lies in preventing, apprehending and resolving enforcement issues involving significant unlawful/unauthorised waste disposal which can have major negative impacts on the environment, people, etc.

Excellent. In enforcement terms my problem is one of limited resources relative to a high workload. However, I am pleased to say that Management are seeking imaginative ways to work round the problem and are receptive to suggested solutions. 

As with certain other careers in front line local government services including Environmental Health, Building Control, Highways and Trading Standards I would urge people to give it a go! The work is essential; it is interesting and varied and all about safeguarding people and the environment.

Prior to working at East Sussex County Council (ESCC) I was a Senior Planner at Lewes and Eastbourne Councils. I started in planning in 2003 at Lewes with no knowledge of planning in the admin department. From there I built my knowledge up and studied for a degree in planning via distance learning through work. Through this I became a Planning Officer and then gained promotion to a Senior Planning Officer. Working at this council built up my skillset within the District level of planning working on residential and commercial developments.

I started at ESCC in July 2022 working in Minerals and Waste. This side of planning was new to me as it was not dealt with at District level other than via consultation responses. I found that my existing planning knowledge was extremely useful and transferable. My knowledge enabled me to fully get to grips with my new role in the planning structure. Planning at a County level is different as the activities dealt with are less intense than at District level and are of a more strategic and functional nature as well as dealing with applications on Council properties. My background in a more design orientated side of planning at Town and Country level has enabled me to bring an interest in design and materials to the Minerals and Waste role.

My most exciting project since starting at ESCC has been determining a new Youth Centre at Heathfield. The impact of allowing this application will be positive in improving the social lives and interests of the young people in the town. The design and materials proposed were bold and contemporary and I considered that this would also result in a positive uplift in the appearance of the built environment in the town and hopefully lead to more interesting and better designed buildings moving forward in the future.

I feel that being a Planner gives you a huge responsibility to make a difference in the local area and further afield. It is a responsibility to make the right decisions in order to improve the lives of residents in terms of a functional environment as well as an aesthetic environment whilst addressing local, national and global needs for buildings, land uses and development. I feel personally that in my time in planning across both councils, that I have made a positive impact on the built environment in the places that I have worked. I feel more connected to the areas and proud of the development that I have helped achieve. There aren't many jobs that give you the opportunity to leave a positive legacy on the visual and economic landscape and population that will outlast you and stand the testament of time. With this comes the responsibility of making the right decisions for your area, physically, strategically and environmentally.

ESCC is a good authority to work for with a pleasant ‘County Hall’ building to work from. The Planning Policy and Development Management team is small however it is a good team to be a part of and everyone is welcoming and helpful. I have found people enthusiastic in sharing knowledge and opinions and I personally find this the best way to work and learn. Likewise I am more than happy to offer my opinions and knowledge to other colleagues to share learning.

Do it. Working in planning is enjoyable, there’s always something to learn and it’s always evolving as a function, and as outlined above, what other job gives you the ability to place shape and leave a long-term positive legacy?

I have worked at East Sussex County Council (ESCC) for 31 years. When I came to the job, I was a qualified planner with Local Plans and Development Management (formerly “Control”) experience but I had no minerals and waste planning knowledge. I wasn’t really sure what to expect!  However, the work has been diverse, and interesting with plenty of challenges.

Each year I prepare a document known as the Local Aggregate Assessment which is required by the Government. This includes information on the amount of sand and gravel sold, recycled and imported into our Waste and Minerals Local Plan area.  This year it will establish the position in East Sussex, South Downs and Brighton for aggregates following our Public Examination into Revised Policies in 2022.  This will enable the Council to both satisfy Government requirements as well as providing an evidence base for planners, residents, industry and other interested groups.

I believe so. Supporting and defending the Councils planning policies can be satisfying and at times gives a sense of pride.

The Council (and department) are a large organisation but the minerals and waste planning team is friendly and supportive. 

Planning is an interesting profession and gives you an opportunity to be involved in shaping the urban areas and countryside in which we live, work and spend our leisure time. The climate crisis and the need to reach net zero has made planning a vitally important discipline to work in and local government should be at the heart of delivering environmental solutions and mitigation.  Becoming a planner in local government can offer a satisfying, positive and constructive career path.

I began my career in planning at HCC straight from University not having any experience or knowledge of planning just the desire to use my geography degree and work with people to improve locations we live in. It has been so much more diverse than I expected and has involved working across a few different departments and authorities which has really been beneficial for me to understand planning in its entirety. 

My latest role involves bringing together multiple professional disciplined to support future development across the county. It gets us all thinking about the influence new ways of working can have in managing our services, masterplanning large development sites and helping to create happy and healthy new communities. It will be interesting to see how we forge new relationships and learn lessons from other authorities.

As a Town Planner you are constantly reflecting over your input and this is always a tricky question, because you feel that you can always do more as a planner to influence new legislation or help the local community. However, every planner plays their role in making a difference. There can be a small difference you make such as agreeing an applicant’s choice of brick for an extension, which can have a huge positive impact for them and influence the look of a new development. On are bigger scale, I have had long conversations with people about the need for mineral extraction sites and the impact this has on a landscape but also balancing the need for extraction sites to support growth. My next venture may see me engaging with new communities to ask their opinions and shape the services that we provide to them. 

My unit is made up of a range of planners and non-planners that work cohesively which works really well. We have varied backgrounds and learn so much from each other and love to get together virtually and in person to talk about the world of planning, as our unit touches on so many aspects of planning not one distinct discipline.

Don’t hesitate, try it out. Seek out the positive changes that you can make to your area. You may want to concentrate on one speciality or be more diverse with great ideas for future planning projects. Your knowledge can be applied to all sorts of aspects of planning.

My first involvement in planning was back in 2008ish where I attended a public meeting around the demolition of a heritage property (which included an independent book and record shop) and reprovision as student flats in Sheffield. The head of planning spoke about the wide range of issues that officers and councillors had to consider which showed some of the complexities and issues involved in planning. 

I have recently been working on Hertfordshire County Council (HCC)’s response to the St Albans Regulation 18 local plan, which included a substantial amount of work around how green infrastructure and nature recovery could be brought into the plan via the countywide Hertfordshire Green Infrastructure Strategy and the Local Nature Recovery Strategy. There are substantial opportunities here particularly around the Chiltern Beechwoods and (potentially) Epping Forest which HCC working with our LPA colleagues can make a difference both for our residents and for the environment.

I think ‘making a difference’ has a slightly different meaning in local government: it’s not necessarily about securing clients, winning speculative appeals, or challenging planning obligations but instead being able to do the right thing for its own sake. I think being potentially able to work some of the green infrastructure and nature recovery work into the St Albans plan, securing planning obligations in Goffs Oak to support he delivery of a school expansion, and supporting an LPA with the potential delivery of a youth community facility.

We are a lovely team, everybody has supported me as I have moved from a non-planning into a planning role. There is a wide variety of work to be involved in. This is particularly the case at county level where we also incorporate the highway authority, significant infrastructure planning, Local Nature Recovery strategy, Minerals and Waste planning, and significant county planning development proposals. Working across ten districts also means there are a lot of significant and different types of developments to work with.

There are lots of opportunities for training and qualification – my team has supported my application to do my planning masters at UCL, including paying the fees and giving me paid study leave. 

I was already working at the council in the Economic Development Team having just completed my apprenticeship in business administration, I was looking for opportunities to progress my career. The Planning Policy team sat next to our team, so I knew the team and spoke to them regularly but didn’t have a great understanding of what they did. During a council review the Section 106 Officer job became available as a training opportunity to be able to gain a master’s in urban planning whilst working full time. Once I saw this position become available, I spoke to different members of the planning team and did my own research to learn more about the role and whether it was something I would be interested. I applied for the role which I was then successful in and started the role in May 2019. In May 2022 I successfully got the Strategic Housing Development Officer role still working in the same team but now specialising in affordable housing and housing delivery. 

The role was much more varied than I expected. I have had the opportunity to get involved in different consultation events and projects. 

Whilst working at North Lincolnshire Council I have had the opportunity to work on a number of different projects. My favourite project I have worked on is the specialist dementia supported housing scheme, I was a part of the project team to deliver the 28 bed specialist dementia scheme within Scunthorpe. It was a great opportunity to see a development come together and look round the specialist housing seeing all the adaptations to support people living with dementia to live independently. This dementia housing scheme was the first of its kind in North Lincolnshire and has had a positive impact on the lives of those who now live there. 

A project I am currently working on is the Transforming Scunthorpe’s Housing Market with £3.2 million of Towns Fund money this is an exciting project for; regeneration and redevelopment of vacant properties; conversation of vacant commercial floorspace and development of new build homes within Scunthorpe. This funding is a great opportunity for improvements to the town centre for the residents of North Lincolnshire. 

Since being a planner, I feel like I have made a personal difference to the people of North Lincolnshire, in my first role as section 106 officer I successfully negotiated with developers section 106 contributions towards a variety of different things such as; money towards extending schools to provide more school places; money towards park in the local community this has also included disability equipment and also money towards highways improvements.   

In my current role as Strategic Housing Officer, I am promoting North Lincolnshire to a range of house builders and registered providers advocating for high quality affordable housing on all developments to meet our housing need including; 3 bed family homes; adaptable bungalows and extra facilities to meeting our residents housing need. 

North Lincolnshire Council is a friendly place to work where managers are very supportive and want you to progress in your career. Managers will always give you time to explain something which you don’t understand and support you with any problems you may have. 

One piece of advice I would give is to take every opportunity which you are given and explore the different parts of planning as there is such a variety of different roles. During my time at North Lincolnshire Council I have had the opportunity to get involved in many different projects. 

I have just completed the 4 year degree apprenticeship scheme at Sheffield Hallam University in Urban Planning. Studying whilst also working full time is hard but you are exposed to both the academic and practical aspect to planning concurrently expanding your knowledge further. The course gave me the opportunity to learn more about different aspects of planning which I hadn’t dealt with at work included master planning and design which has since helped me in my current role. The day at university once a week also gives you the opportunity to speak to a range of other planning students who are from a wide range of backgrounds such as local authorities, planning consultancies, house builders and environmental agencies which can be a very insightful conversation of how they approach different challenging aspects of planning. 

I knew ‘planning’ existed before I joined the council, but I was not aware of the process behind how a local authority ran a successful planning department and how many people/teams would be involved. There are many aspects to planning and being able to see how each individual or team has an impact on the whole planning process is inspiring when everybody works together to achieve a positive outcome. 

I have recently been able to help the Neighbourhood Services team by providing some S106 money which was earmarked for play improvements at a local park. The park was run-down and not well used by residents, but with the help of S106 money and some additional funding, the Neighbourhood Services team and the local community have worked together on the community project to upgrade the play equipment and make the park a safe and fun space for local children. The local residents were involved within the decision-making process and were able to help choose what play equipment was inserted into the park; the park is now well used by these residents which is a great benefit to them. This is also a benefit to the council as we now receive less anti-social behaviour complaints which frees up additional resource and money for other projects in the area. 

As a Section 106 Officer, I feel that the S106 money received from planning applications benefits the local community as it allows for improvements to services such as health, open space, leisure which I believe does make a difference to the local authority and the wider community. My time at North Lincolnshire Council has been limited as a recent graduate myself, but I hope to be able to make more differences in the near future. 

North Lincolnshire Council as a whole has been an amazing place to work in the 15 months that I have worked here. Staff members from all departments are happy to help if needed which produces a friendly working environment. The planning department and teams within all work closely together to provide the best outcomes for North Lincolnshire as a whole.

As a recent addition to the planning team at North Lincolnshire Council, I would urge other graduates to consider a planning career within a local authority due to the variety of work that is available. No two days are the same, there is always a new project to be worked on or a new challenge to overcome which tests your knowledge and brings the best out of you. 

I have worked in the Planning team at Norwich City Council for 8 years. I started out as a Planning Assistant and have now worked my way up the career-graded Planner position.  I have previously worked in the Development Management team and now work in the Planning Policy team. The ability to progress upwards through the team, and the council funding my MSc Town Planning degree means I feel valued as a member of staff. 

I find Norwich City Council Planning team a very supportive environment. One of my colleagues is mentoring me through my RTPI chartership application in addition to their day job, and there are always opportunities to shadow other members of staff or attend training courses to gain additional knowledge. 

The best thing about my job is the variety of work I get to do. The Planning Policy team is involved in so many areas of work ranging from Biodiversity Net Gain and green infrastructure to housing delivery and master planning for major regeneration projects. One of my favourite projects I work on is the River Wensum Strategy Partnership. The City Council leads a group of organisations to deliver projects to improve the river environment in Norwich for both people and nature. I like this project because I get to meet and work with lots of different stakeholders, and it’s really satisfying getting to see projects delivered on the ground and know that you played a part in helping that happen. 

Before starting my role as a Planner at Norwich, I had completed an undergraduate degree in Planning, so I had some basic knowledge and understanding of Planning but limited experience in a planning role. Working as a Planner at Norwich has been so much more than I was expecting when I took on the role. Planning is a very wide and diverse sector which makes it very interesting as there is always something new to learn and experience. The wide range of things in Planning makes work exciting and no two cases are ever the same.

I have been working on Assets of Community Value, which has been a very interesting. Assets of Community Value make a real difference in the community as the focus is on bringing the community together by preserving buildings that are important to the social wellbeing and social interest of members of the community. Through this work I have seen the importance of being part of a community and the benefits this has on people’s lives.

In my role I have made a difference to the local community through some of the cases I have been involved in. The work I do affects people’s lives daily so being passionate about good design and ensuring a good standard of development means that you are ensuring future occupiers of a development will have good living conditions.

The Development Management team at Norwich is a lovely team to work with, the colleagues are friendly and helpful and there is always someone available to give a hand whenever you need help. We have team days which is a really good way to get to know other people in the team and socialise outside of work.

I would say it is a great opportunity and you should take it. Working as a Planner in local government allows you to see the difference your work has in the local area and it is also a great way to get to know the area you live. There is more to planning besides dealing with planning applications, you also have the opportunity to get involved in other things such as Policy, Enforcement and Conservation.

As a mature student I did a degree in Environmental studies, which covered Town and Country Planning as part of the course, so I knew something about Development Management. I started work at the Council as an Information and Advice Officer knowing nothing about how a Local Planning Department operated. Supported by my colleagues I quickly leaned how to find the relevant planning legislation and therefore was able to advise citizens on the need for planning and how they should apply. This led to an interest in becoming a Planning Case Officer and I was able to have a small case load to work on. Gradually as I become more proficient, I applied for the Planning Officer Role. 

I have worked on a large number of minor planning applications, including extensions, new dwellings, Listed Building, shopfronts and signage. This has had a positive impact for both residents and the Council. It has helped residents achieve what they need to accommodate their families, improve their quality of life, whilst achieving well designed practical developments that have a positive impact on the environment. For the Council these improvements generate more economic development, providing employment for the people who work in the City including Architects and Builders among others. 

As planning is very subjective and I feel that I have personally been able to make a difference, working with developers in each case to improve design and reduce any impact the developments may have. This has made a positive contribute to the wider environment. 

I have worked within the department for 21 years and have always felt part of a bigger team. I have always been supported by and in turn support my colleagues. It has been a very positive and productive department to be part off. The department has taken part in creating Design Guides that are now used nationally. The department is proactive in improving sustainable design for the future. 

You don’t have to know all the legislation, but you do need to know how to find it and how to apply it. The role of a Planner in a local authority can be very rewarding, especially when you see development complete and you feel part of the bigger picture in improving the built environment around you. 

I joined Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC) having worked as a planning officer within a previous local authority, and therefore had experienced working within a planning department before joining. However, RBKC was my first authority located within London and was much more urban to my previous authority and therefore it was very different.

Working at RBKC has been much better than I expected and has exceeded all my expectations. I have really been able to grow as a planner whilst working at RBKC and have enjoyed every step! 

Working as a planner you deal with a wide range of planning applications which are all like mini projects! The outcome of planning applications often has a direct impact on residents, who may either be living close by to a development or be the applicant applying for permission themselves. The planning applications which I deal with will also have a direct impact on the Council, for example, helping to ensure that the Councils housing targets are met. 

Yes, I have enjoyed working within local government and feel that as an officer I have the ability to make a difference within the department, team and also the Borough itself. I feel that I can make a difference through my influence on individual planning applications and also more generally on the working arrangements/process within the department itself. 

I can often see the differences from my individual work through changes to processes or the built form of the Borough when I get to see applications I have granted be built! It is amazing to be able to shape the place which you work. 

Since joining RBKC I have worked within three teams, all of which I have loved working within and felt I was valued as a team member. The team are all really approachable and supportive of each other, helping for the department to reach targets and provide a great planning service. I have found the department and the Council as a whole a really welcoming place to work. 

Go for it! I would really recommend making the most out of all opportunities presented to you in early stages of a planning career. I found it especially helpful to shadow a range of planners within my first few months and I feel this really helped to shape me into the planner I am today.

Before working at the Council, my knowledge of planning was very limited. When I started at the Council, I had great responsibility and learnt the nitty gritty aspects of planning at an early stage of my career. It was more challenging than I expected, but in a good way. I enjoy solving problems and working with a range of people in order to preserve and shape the Borough.

A project which I’m proud of was recently approved at Planning Committee. The development was for four new homes with a varied mix of units. I worked on a number of pre-application submissions at this site where we discussed housing mix, site optimisation and design issues. It was a challenging project with there being a number of objections and refusals at this site, however the issues were overcome and I presented it to Councillors. The application was then approved and I felt a sense of achievement. The development will deliver four new homes in the Borough which families will be able to occupy, which is really rewarding. It will be exciting to see it built out! 

As a planner in local government, whilst you are not always able to please everybody, there are instances where you can make a difference to either a specific resident or a developer. As an Officer, over the last few years, I have always felt that it is rewarding to see a development or a project which I have worked on, built out. It is particularly fulfilling when you have been involved from the beginning, and have helped to shape the development in a way in which the design or quality of housing has been improved for future and nearby residents. It’s satisfying when new homes are being provided for families, particularly with the housing shortages across the country. 

The Planning team at RBKC is very supportive and there is always a colleague who is around and willing to help. Everyone has lots of experience and so it was a great place for me to learn, particularly as it has been my first job at a Council. It is also a really fun and sociable place to work!

It’s a great opportunity, particularly at the start of your career. You’re thrown into the real world of planning and experience the highs and the lows with both local communities and other stakeholders. As an Officer you have great responsibility and so can really shape the places in which you work which is really fulfilling.

I had already learned the principles of design and how development works during my studies and so the job role didn’t have any nasty surprises. However, working in Development Management broadens your knowledge a lot, as you get to know about how properties are built and work on a range of projects such as listed buildings, which have different demands to your regular applications.

In my last local authority I managed an application for 90 new council houses. It’s quite rare that the local authority has the capacity to build new homes these days so it was quite exciting and it really brought the public interest to the heart of the job, which is why many of us work in a local authority. We want to make places better for the people who live here. The development has not started yet but it has been a political priority for Local Councillors and the Council alike but I had to ensure that the design delivered a good standard of living for both existing and future occupants. I felt that I’d made a positive difference on the process.

Sometimes you get a scheme in which the idea is fine and suitable for the location, but it’s not designed quite right. You engage your critical thinking and explore solutions with people to improve the scheme until it is at a point it is acceptable. This does make you feel that you have made a positive impact – even when that’s only as a result of minor changes.

The team are really friendly and offer a lot of support for one another. It’s nice to discuss ideas and solutions and learn from each others experiences. And we also get on well and take part in out of work social’s too. 

Planning in local government is often split into Local Policy and Development Management. Policy planners are forward thinking and plan for a vision of the city or town in the next 20 years whereas Development Management handles applications for new buildings. I think of Development Management as the short-term work which leads to the long-term vision and incrementally you are contributing to a change within that setting. It’s quite nice that at some point you’ll be able to look back and see you made an impact in either aspect of that – be it big or small. Think about how you might want to contribute to that overall goal.

I’m working on a major regeneration project in the east end of Sheffield, which will be a mixed-use development including the re-use of historic industrial buildings and the construction of hundreds of net zero carbon-ready new homes. The project will stimulate the wider regeneration of a struggling local centre and will provide a significant contribution to the city’s housing needs. My impact as planner is to ensure that the design of the new buildings is reflective of this new neighbourhood’s status as a catalyst for greater activity in the area, whilst also reflecting local character. I am also pushing for high living standards in the new homes and ensuring that routes through the site for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles are safe and welcoming.

Yes, I feel that my design suggestions to developers and architects can result in higher-quality developments that are more appropriate for local context and ensure good living standards. As a Planner, I also use my knowledge of relevant legislation to problem-solve the best legal routes to dealing with complex proposals, resulting in developments proceeding as quickly as possible. I also push back against poor development, refusing planning applications which would cause harm to local neighbourhoods and defending the Council’s position in appeals.

The department is very friendly and supportive, and we all help each other out with complex cases. There are plenty of social, team-building and training activities, and flexible working policies ensure that staff can have a good work/life balance.

On top of education and work experience, keep up to date with the latest news relating to the planning profession and development in your local area. Be curious when walking around your home town and new places, and think about what kind of developments improve or detract from those places. Hopefully that will strengthen your enthusiasm and put you in the right mindset. I’d definitely recommend working in local government over the private sector, as consultants don’t get to actually be the decision-maker on new developments, which is really what it’s all about!

Prior to joining St Helens Council, I had a foundational understanding of planning procedures, national policies, and had gained experience in the private sector. However, my aspiration upon graduating was to work for a Council and take on the role of a 'decision maker.' Working at the Council has significantly enhanced my practical knowledge and exposed me to a diverse range of applications, surpassing my initial expectations.

During my time at the Council, particularly more recently managing complex cases, I have grown in confidence in overcoming diverse constraints and providing feedback to ensure the best possible development for St Helens. This process demands a consideration of multiple factors and contending parties. One noteworthy project involved the regeneration of a Primary School. In collaboration with the developer, I worked with them to achieve the best design and layout for the scheme, all the while being mindful of the impact on local residents, the need for the school and site constraints. Working for the Council allows you to build skills where balancing a number of different interests and different parties interest is required to leave a positive imprint on the local community, the developer and the Council.

I hope so. In my role as a planner in local authority, I do believe that I've been able to make an impact. By actively engaging with diverse projects and communities, I've contributed to shaping high quality design, sustainable developments that enhance the quality of life for residents. Through careful consideration of various factors such as community needs, environmental concerns, and economic viability, I've played a part in fostering positive changes within the local landscape. It's immensely rewarding to witness the improvements and know that my work can directly influence the well-being of the people and the prosperity of the area.

Our team as a whole works well in collaborating with all areas of the Council working hard to build relationships with other relevant areas and teams to get better decisions in the long run. Teamwork and shared dedication to bettering St Helens as a place makes it an exciting place to work. 

For anyone considering a career as a planner in a local authority I think honing robust communication skills is paramount. The ability to negotiate effectively and the confidence to collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders are invaluable assets. It's crucial to adhere to the overarching objective of attaining the best development for the area while navigating the web of opinions and interests. Striking a balance between assertiveness and adaptability is key, ensuring that the community's needs and the council's vision harmoniously align in every planning decision.

Prior to working at the Council, I had attached my local College but struggled to find a subject which I wanted to carry on with in later life. I moved on to a part-time job at a restaurant before applying for and being successful in a role with the Council as a ‘Planning Enforcement Apprentice’. I have now been with the Council for 12 years and it has been more encouraging/supportive and progressive than I initially thought. I always have the support of colleagues within the Council and have been able to gain my degree in Planning, Environment and Development during my time here – self progression has always been supported. 

I have recently helped shadow a senior colleague on a major regeneration scheme at the heart of Telford Town Centre – The Station Quarter. This has been massively rewarding in being able to deal with large scale projects, which will help deliver new homes, education facilities and open spaces to residents of Telford. This is a major, landmark project for Telford & Wrekin Council and will help us ensure that our Borough is growing with residents’ needs. 

Yes. Whilst applications that I approve may receive objections through the consultation progress, it is always regarding to see the schemes come to fruition and see houses and jobs created for our residents. 

Working within the planning department/the Council as a whole is very rewarding. We are well supported by management and there is an understanding that a work-life balance is required by staff. The Council has some great benefits in respect of flexi, annual leave, maternity/paternity leave and management support you both inside and outside of work. 

Working in local government is rewarding and you will be able to see the difference that you make in your local community. You will make good friendships and professional connections, which will be valuable to you later in life.

I commenced my present role at Trafford Council in January 2018.  By that point in my career I had already worked in the planning profession for over 17 years, including roles in the private sector (at two consultancies) and at other local authorities (three others, in enforcement and in development management).  As a result, I had a good understanding of the planning system and the role of an officer in development management.  Nonetheless, and reflective of my full experience which now spans 23 years, there are continuous learning and development opportunities, changes in political priorities, and new policies and practices which make for a very stimulating, varied and rewarding working environment. 

Whilst I am a development management officer and determining major planning applications remains my principal role, over the last three years I have also had played a significant part in the Council’s preparation of a new development plan document.  The Civic Quarter Area Action Plan (AAP) covers some 55 hectares of land in northern Trafford, close to the boundaries with Manchester and Salford.  It has been recognised as an area in need of regeneration but with the potential for significant transformation, building on its locational and physical attributes.  The AAP provides the necessary statutory policy framework in order that this transformational change, which will be residential-led, is delivered appropriately and managed effectively.  Following an Examination in Public (with hearing sessions in April 2022 in which I was involved) the AAP, having been found sound, was adopted in January 2203.

Having influenced the drafting of policies, alongside landowners, residents, other stakeholders, Council colleagues and consultation bodies, I am now facilitating the implementation of the AAP in working with developers on planning proposals (at application and pre-application stage).  The ambition is to secure the Civic Quarter’s revitalisation (over the plan period to 2037 and beyond) and to create Trafford’s newest, greenest and most vibrant neighbourhood.       

Yes.  When dealing with planning proposals, and in putting into practice a key purpose of the planning system, I have always sought to achieve a balance between the applicant’s interests and those of the wider community.  The intention has always been to strive to make the right recommendations and sound decisions, on advice from senior colleagues, and to seek scheme adjustments where necessary.  It is always a joy and a privilege, when driving around the borough, to spot a newly completed, successful development and to take pride in the outcome, which will remain a feature in the townscape/landscape for years to come.  Some critique and reflection on how a development could have been further improved is also part of the exercise, of course!           

The Development Management team at Trafford Council is a superb place to work. Managers are fair, motivating, easy to approach, knowledgeable and set a very good example.  Communication is good and team work is encouraged, including through prioritising office-based work and organising design days, outcome tours and internal training events.  As part of this, an employees’ personal and professional development is also prioritised. The result is a very supportive and encouraging working environment where standards and expectations are high but where there is a feeling of reassurance given the level of assistance, advice and understanding available.  Relations with councillors are also good, and likewise with other Council services.         

My career has been quite diverse to date including a lengthy stint in private practice.  However, it is when working in local government that I feel most professionally fulfilled.  This is because it provides an opportunity to genuinely seek the best outcomes for a dedicated area in terms of land use and development.  At times there are competing interests and there are always added pressures brought about by high workloads, resource constraints, new policy layers and changes in legislation.  External complaints and criticisms are also part of the job, as are overturns at planning committee.  However, if you approach the job with a practical and rational outlook and if you’re prepared to put the extra effort in when needed then – when working within a council with a positive culture such as Trafford – it can be a very enjoyable and constructive experience with many opportunities for personal and professional growth.

I joined the Development Management team at Trafford Council in August 2016 from Cherwell District Council with around 6 months experience. Whilst it was the same role, each authority has their own opportunities and challenges. 

After six years’ experience within development management I moved in to the Strategic Planning and Growth team. One of the first projects I got involved with was a transport study that focused on a main arterial route through Trafford. The study assessed the current situation as well as the future issues and opportunities along the route in order to develop concept designs to improve walking, cycling and public transport access. The study will help inform the future plans for the council and deliver improved sustainable transport options for residents and visitors of Trafford. 

Both as a Planning & Development Officer and Strategic Planning Officer I feel I have been able to make a difference. For example, in my first role I was able to negotiate better design and overcome issues with applicants. Whilst in my current role I am able to use my skills and knowledge to influence future plans that the council may pursue. 

Even though the planning department is very large overall, there is an excellent team spirit and camaraderie. Hybrid working allows the opportunity to work from both at home and within the council offices, which are relatively modern with lots of light.

My advice for a new planner in local government would be to have patience, be resourceful, keep positive, and be ambitious. 

Whilst there are challenges working in local government, at the end of the day you know that you are working towards a better future for the residents and environment of the area.

I have been working in planning for more than 20 years. It has changed dramatically in that time as the remit of the planning system is ever expanding. I already knew quite a bit about planning before I joined Trafford in 2016 but learning never stops in a local government job and I discover new things all the time. Thinking back, I learnt more about planning in my first three months working in a planning department than I did throughout my university course. Along the way I have (among very many other things) learnt to apply my planning judgement and articulate that judgement both verbally and in writing; how to draft planning policy and guidance; how to give evidence; how to lead, manage and transform teams, including in a time of crisis; and how to operate in a political and corporate environment. Working in planning provides all the skills needed to forge a successful career in local government. 

I have spent the last 18 months leading the project to bring forward the Trafford Design Code through the DLUHC funded Design Code Pathfinder Programme. The Trafford Design Code is one of only a few Borough wide codes in the Pathfinder Programme and is a digital first, innovative and practical way of delivering design coding at a Borough wide scale. It is intended to transform design quality in Trafford and codify ongoing good practice based on common design issues arising during the development management process. The content has been drafted in house, up skilling officers and enabling the establishment of a new Heritage and Urban Design Team. Residents will benefit by seeing landscape and context led developments come forward in their areas, offering attractive living environments. Developers will benefit from increased certainty in the planning process. 

Absolutely yes. There are developments which are better places to live, work and visit specifically because of my personal intervention, particularly in influencing the design of those developments. Trafford also has its first new statutory development plan since 2012 (the Civic Quarter Area Action Plan) as it was my influence that saw it upgraded from a supplementary planning document. This will deliver 4000 new homes on brownfield land through a design led approach to transformational change.

Everyone is lovely, friendly and welcoming. The Planning Service at Trafford is respected and celebrated by the senior leadership team and Members and seen as the solution not the problem. Many people in the planning team choose to work mostly in the office so there is always an opportunity to observe, collaborate with and learn from others – you won’t be sitting on your own. We organise regular lunch and learns and team / department meetings to share information and come together for training and development. This includes opportunities to get out on site and look at outcomes and best practice. 

It is the best job in the world and I wouldn’t choose to do anything else. Come with an open mind, a willingness to try and turn your hand to anything and a great work ethic and it will be hugely rewarding in return. 

Before my role at Trafford Council I had just finished my third year of my Master of Planning degree at Newcastle University (four year course and one year in industry). At university, the knowledge gained was mainly conceptual/theoretical and involved discussing issues that planning may be able to solve, such as environmental issues, socio-economics and design. Despite this, there was a minority of vocational modules, which involved legislation and planning documents, however these were usually presented as more complicated case studies and therefore it was difficult to grasp what I would consider as the more core mechanisms of planning.

I wasn’t completely sure what to expect when going into my first job, however despite the work I am doing being new to me, with a lot of planning legislation/policies I have never really interacted with, I don’t find the way things work particularly surprising. 

The most complicated work I have been allocated has been the assessment of Existing Lawful Development Certificates for a site called New Manor Farm in Stretford. This project has been eye-opening in the sense that it showed me that a planner must know much more than planning policies/legislation in order to issue a correct decision. It also showed me that a planner must also be aware of the implication of a decision down the line. This project was to certify a plot of land as B8 in the Green Belt due to the land being operationally used as such without cessation in excess of 10 years. Currently, the issues at play include Rights of Way, planning units, extinguishment of use rights and nuances of various uses and their classification. 

In this case it is paramount to issue a decision which is correct and consistent with law, meanwhile also being able to maintain the importance and function of the Green Belt as specified in National Policy. The certification of land for B8 use would be contrary to the aims mentioned in the NPPF, affecting openness and permanence. The Green Belt is held in high regard in the NPPF and therefore by extension in the council.

Something many people my age are surprised about when I speak to them about my job is how much responsibility and impact I have on people’s day to day life so early in my career. Especially when undertaking my enforcement duties, as this role requires a lot of negotiation, clear explanation, and investigation with people who may not have the best relationship with local government.

Ideally, enforcement matters would be solved without the issuing of notices, meaning that any advice or requests given throughout an enforcement process must be clear and correct at all times in order to make sure that owner does not incur needless losses to time and finances. Therefore, anything I say must be well worded and careful as I am in a position power where people are under a pressure to enact things that I advise. Taking into the account the above, I feel a great deal of responsibility and impact when dealing complainants and owners and feel satisfaction when a good outcome is reached.

I enjoy working at Trafford Council a lot. The working environment is very positive, collaborative and I actively get encouraged get involved with other teams if I find an interest in something they’re working on. The flexibility of work has also been of a great benefit to me especially when adjusting to a 9-5 for the first time.

At the beginning of my experience I was quite stressed at the amount of new knowledge I needed to learn as well as having lack of confidence in my own knowledge to be able to carry out a good job. If you are not sure how something works or if something doesn’t seem right, ask someone to walk you through something, or to check your work. People are very happy to help and were also new to the job at one point.

Before working at my Council I worked in the private sector as an Architect for 10 years, and then as a Development and Design Manager at Newham Council in their Housing Delivery team. So I had tried on different 'hats' in the construction industry, but until joining Haringey Council I had only experienced Planning by submitting planning applications on behalf of an applicant, so from the 'other side of the table'. 

Most private developers I had worked with previously were unwilling to exceed the minimum targets required by Planning Policy, which is why I strongly believe it is so important to set the best possible quality standards through good Planning Policy. I was optimistic about my new role as a Planning Policy Officer giving me the opportunity to have a bigger impact on the quality of development in London after years of trying to persuade developers to go beyond minimum standards where they were not legally required to do so.

I was also hopeful that Planning would offer a more diverse and inclusive working environment than I had been used to previously as an Architect.

However, the planning system also seemed opaque and it was difficult to understand why some planning processes, such as the publication of Local Plans, could take several years. I had the impression that it would be a slower, more bureaucratic world than I had been used to. While it is true that developing a Local Plan is a slow process, part of the reason for this is that we are undertaking substantial engagement with local communities and stakeholders throughout the process of the drafting the Plan. This commitment to working closely with residents to shape future plans for the borough flows from a Council-wide policy, the 'Haringey Deal'. I am enjoying being part of an organisation that works hard to be more transparent and listen to the communities that we serve.

I am a member of Haringey's Planning Policy team. We are currently drafting the Council's emerging New Local Plan which, once published, will set quality standards for all new development in the borough for the next 15 years.

Yes, I feel that I am making a difference by drawing on my sustainable design skills and more importantly by listening to local people and experts within the Council to ensure that our emerging Draft Local Plan policies will deliver Haringey's commitment to respond to the Climate Emergency while raising design quality standards for development in the borough.

I am proud to work for Haringey Council, a diverse organisation with a supportive and inclusive work culture. In PBSS everyone puts in the effort to be kind and respectful to each other. My team also have an excellent sense of humour which I have learned is often the case amongst Planners.

Join us!

You get to play your part in making a place work better, by providing spaces and infrastructure that will benefit people and places.

Planning to name just a few examples − can shape the building of decent, affordable and accessible housing, attract inward investment and jobs, improve health, wellbeing and air quality, celebrate heritage and nurture nature.  

To make all this happen involves researching, evidencing, and listening to communities on ways to improve a neighbourhood. 

We’re preparing a new local plan which will positively direct new development in Haringey that responds to and meets the need of the communities to deliver a greener fairer borough. 

Leading on our housing policies for the new local plan will signpost the types and tenures of homes required to meet our housing targets and meet the needs of communities in Haringey.

Planning policy, infrastructure, placemaking, active travel, health and wellbeing 

The interdependencies are particularly exciting because the planning team engage with a rich variety of expertise on how to make areas better places to live. So, you learn more about the approaches of other teams and professions to challenges and opportunities. 

It can also be a core driver in delivering a Council’s positive vision for an area.