The School of Real Estate and Planning at University of Reading with the RTPI SE region and Reading Real Estate Foundation (RREF) will host a Planners’ Question Time session on February 28th, 2012. All students and RTPI SE members are welcome.

The English planning system has been the subject of much media attention with the newly proposed and much contested National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), due to be finalised in Spring 2012, and extended debate around the Localism Bill. Royal Assent for the Localism Act in November 2011 has formalised the anticipated radical changes to the Planning system in England, including the abolition of Regional Spatial Strategies, the creation of LEPs and new neighbourhood planning powers for communities in the areas in which they live.

This emerging planning environment raises numerous questions concerning future challenges and uncertainties for planning practice. It implies a refashioned role for the planner and for communities, as well as a new operating environment for developers, landowners and others with an interest in development outcomes.

Key questions from the floor will be used to stimulate a debate around the opportunities, challenges and uncertainties for future planning practice in England, mimicking the long-running BBC TV Question Time Q&A format. The panel will include:

·       Steve Avery, Director of Park Services, New Forest National Park Authority

·       Kim Morris, Director, Barton Willmore

·       Gavin Parker (Chair), Professor of Planning Studies, University of Reading

·       Suzanne Parkes, Senior Planning Policy Officer, Mole Valley District Council

·       John Romanski, Planning Advisor, Planning Aid England

Join us for what will be a lively discussion, followed by an opportunity to network with alumni, students and guests. The event will be held at the School of Real Estate and Planning, Henley Business School, Whiteknights Campus, Reading, from 18:15pm with drinks afterwards.