Online consultants directory matches services and skills

Planning, 7 November 2008

The relaunched RTPI online directory of planning consultants is the only official listing of more than 500 firms providing the services of professionally qualified planners.

It is the premier site for the sector, listing firms that operate in the UK and internationally and providing up-to-date information to prospective clients on their level of service and experience, whatever a project requires. There have been 800,000 page views already this year and 60,000 unique visits from more than 130 countries, half of them repeat visitors.

Every year, the service receives positive comments from users. "We will approach four consultants and find the one who best suits our needs," said Nick Fisher in Norfolk. "I should like to thank the RTPI online directory for its speedy and efficient response to my enquiry and for providing me with a range of local contacts to call on," observed Ronnie King in North Yorkshire.

The relaunched service allows consultants to provide detailed information on the location and services they can provide and to update or amend information when required. Site navigation is also easier.

An online entry guarantees a consultancy listing in the printed directory and the relevant regional leaflet, which will be published in January. Both the directory and regional leaflets are distributed in bulk and free of charge to all local authorities, libraries, citizen advice bureaux, Planning Aid and RTPI regional offices. All firms listed online are also included in the referral service, which still receives in advance of 100 enquiries a year.

The online directory is as important for the end user. Services are offered with the knowledge that firms listed are backed by such aspects as the RTPI code of conduct, by which all members are bound. All RTPI members are also expected to be up to date on planning knowledge and indemnity cover.

The comprehensive database gives easy access and the search facility can list consultants on a number of levels such as location, services, facilities and skills. Most importantly of all, this service is free to users and there is no need to register beforehand. The site is continually being updated, providing access to the latest consultancy information available.

For further information on the consultants online directory, please visit www.rtpiconsultants.com or contact directory manager Simon Owen on 020 7960 5663 or email simon.owen@rtpiconsultants.co.uk