The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) has appointed GVA HOW Planning’s Andrew Johnston as RTPI North West Chair 2019, while Gary Halman has received a fellowship from the organisation, acknowledging his many professional achievements in planning.
Andrew will be continuing the work of current Chair Bob Philips, to plan a packed year of events in the North West region.
He said: “Roll on 2019 – the North West region is in great shape and I’m really looking forward to taking on the role of Chair next year.
“I will make sure that the region continues to be supported to do the brilliant work that it already does and that we reach out and meet more people this year than ever before. We already have an enlightening CPD programme to look forward to, along with a jam-packed schedule of quiz nights, sports days and spa trips, as well as regional awards and the regional annual dinner in autumn.”
Andrew hopes to build stronger relationships between planners working in both the public and private sector; allowing both sides to learn from one another. He will also be writing to all 40 local planning authorities in the north west with further details to the launch of the first RTPI Champions initiative, which is set to take-off in the new year.
Andrew said: “I plan to support young planners in the region and encourage them to share their knowledge and expertise through the RAC. I know that volunteering is hard work and I am grateful to everyone that gives up their valuable time freely, so I want to make sure that it is rewarding, fun and we all get something from it. There are lots of opportunities for planners with varying levels of experience, with bright ideas and enthusiasm to do great things.”
Andrew took on his role of Chair at the North West RTPI meeting on Friday 7th December, at which, Gary Halman also received a fellowship.
Gary said: “I’m delighted to have been elected a Fellow of the RTPI. Planning and development is crucial to driving economic development and delivering the new homes that the country so urgently needs. The RTPI is at the heart of this and it’s rewarding and an honour that one’s personal contribution is recognised in this way.
