The things I know - Alan Pearce

Planning, 24 October 2008

- Where did you study planning?

The University of the West of England, graduating in 1996.

- What skills did you have when you graduated?

A broad overview of the planning system, strategic policy, urban design and sustainable development.

- What attracted you to planning?

My first thoughts were architecture and design, but I opted for a career that would engage me with a wide variety of disciplines in co-ordinating development proposals.

- What did you learn in your first job?

At a large architectural practice, I strengthened my masterplanning and people skills and knowledge of how planning works in practice.

- What skills have you had to learn over your career?

An understanding of the planning, transport and environmental matters that help me to co-ordinate projects.

- What or who have been the biggest influences on your career?

Working in a top property consultancy has advanced my knowledge of the development industry. Nick Tyrrell has been an influence over a large part of my career. I admire developers who embrace the principles of sustainable development.

- What is your career highlight?

Co-ordinating planning submissions for C&J Clark International on its state-of-the-art distribution centre and 400-home exemplar sustainable housing scheme in Street, Somerset.

- What have you learned outside work that has influenced you?

Seeing best practice in cities across Europe and teamwork's importance through sport.

- What further skills do you aim to develop?

Partnership working with the property side of the business and a greater understanding of surveying's role in the development industry.

- How important is it to keep abreast of developments in allied professions?

It is critical to emerging requirements for planning. As co-ordinators we need to acknowledge changes in environmental policy and law.