Q&A with chris lucas
Planning applications are set to soar by nearly 160% as businesses back a Labour government serious about getting Britain building again. Recent changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) have unleashed a flood of opportunities in the planning industry. Consultancies, developers, housebuilders – everyone’s on the hunt for talent. Our expert recruitment consultant, Chris Lucas, has years of experience on tdm’s land and planning desk and has a clear take on what sets candidates apart and gets them to the top of the pile.
what does it take to become a town planner?
“To begin a career in town planning you’ll need to ideally pursue a degree, typically in geography followed by a master’s in one of various town planning or urban design. Once qualified, becoming chartered by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) is a significant step in advancing your career. Achieving chartered status through the RTPI sets you apart, enhancing your professional standing and demonstrating a commitment to the field.”
what does a typical career path look like in town planning?
“The path can vary a lot depending on whether you’re in consultancy or housebuilding but most start as graduate planners or assistants. From there, it’s about putting in the work to move up to planner, senior planner and then you start looking at management roles. If you’re in housebuilding, you might find yourself as a planning manager or head of department. In consultancy, expect to work your way up from principal planner to associate or eventually director.”
what’s a day in the life of a town planner like?
“A typical day for a town planner is dynamic and multifaceted. It’s not just about desk work, planners can spend a significant amount of time on-site, evaluating potential development projects and interacting with developers, architects, local authorities and local residents. There are also plenty of meetings where planners present their proposals and address concerns or gain approval. It’s a mix of technical know-how, strategic thinking, and communication. No two days are the same and that’s what makes it exciting.”
what key skills and traits do employers look for in town planners?
“Planners need to have strong analytical skills, particularly when it comes to interpreting data and navigating policies and regulations. Attention to detail is essential as is the ability to manage complex information and produce clear, comprehensive plans. Effective communication is important as planners frequently interact with a range of people and balance conflicting interests. Problem-solving is a core skill as town planning involves finding solutions that address the needs of developers, communities and the environment in a sustainable way.”
what advice would you give someone considering a career in town planning?
“You can step into town planning through three main routes – for a local authority, a consultancy or a developer. I’d always recommend moving between these different areas as you might find that working for a housebuilder suits you more than working with a local authority or vice versa. Once you’re in the industry, engage and learn from your peers, understand the struggles and pressures they face and how they’ve overcome them. I speak with planners all over the country and they all face very similar challenges. Once you’ve found your feet, I’d encourage you to work towards getting chartered with the Royal Town Planning Institute.”
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