Institute gets its chance to voice concerns over planning reforms

Planning, 18 January 2008

 Secretary-general Robert Upton and policy director Rynd Smith engaged in a lively debate with 18 MPs on key issues that offered an opportunity for the RTPI to set out its opposition to local member review boards and the need for clarity, consistency and credibility in the proposed national policy statements.

During the session, MPs David Curry and Robert Neill challenged the validity of the proposed independent planning commission and the role of the Planning Inspectorate while Clive Betts MP defended the review boards. The challenging questions demonstrated how the committee sought to tap into the detailed knowledge and expertise of the RTPI.

- Notable renovation projects sought for television series

Independent television production company Tiger Aspect is working on a series for Channel 4 that will follow the progress of restoration projects. It is looking for properties of unique historical or architectural significance such as follies, windmills, lighthouses, post offices, water towers and signal boxes that are to be restored for residential use. Ideally the owners would already have secured planning permission. Filming is to start as soon as possible and will continue for six months.

If you know any buildings that fit the bill, please contact Rhodri Jones on 020 7434 6910 or email rhodrijones@tigeraspect.co.uk.