Laura Smith, chartered town planner at independent property consultant GVA, has been named as Young Planner of the Year 2012.
The West Midlands Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) presented Laura with the accolade at the organisation’s annual ball, which was held at Birmingham’s Botanical Gardens.
Since joining GVA as a Graduate Planner in August 2008, Laura has been involved in a variety of planning and regeneration projects in the Midlands and beyond for both public and private sector clients, and also spent some time as a member of a multi-disciplinary team, delivering the redevelopment of the former RAF Uxbridge site in London.
Laura said: “It is a great feeling to be recognised, particularly within your own sector and I am very proud to have received this award. I have received a huge amount of support from GVA and am extremely fortunate to be working in an environment that actively fosters both personal and professional development.”
The award was presented to Laura in recognition of her work as Chair of the WM Young Planners, which involved organising the very successful Young Planners Annual Conference in Birmingham last October, as well as her contribution to several major projects at GVA.
Stephen Hollowood, Senior Director, GVA, said: “Laura is extremely driven and committed member of the team and I am truly delighted that she has been recognised by such a prestigious industry body. This is a great example of what can be achieved when we are prepared to put our heads above the parapet and dedicate our time and resources to regional business-related organisations.”
This has been a great year for Laura, who was also shortlisted for Birmingham Young Professional of the Year 2012, highlighting her position as one of the city’s rising stars.