The RTPI provides up to date information, support and practice advice on a wide range of topics to practicing town planners.

We do this through producing Good Practice Notes (GPNs), providing signposts to the latest good practice guidance, from a range of planning stakeholders, including through our dedicated Climate Change Compendium. 

Advice is also available through our Planners in the Workplace initiative, we aim to harness the knowledge and expertise of practicing planners through our Networks and Associations, and run a varied events programme.

The RTPI's Manifesto for Planning: Shaping the Future shapes our practice work together with our Corporate Strategy 2010-2014.

Latest Good Practice Work

• Climate Change Compendium  
  Supports the RTPI’s Seven Commitments on Climate Change by providing signposting to key web sites, guidance, research, tools and case studies giving practice advice and supporting information on climate change.
• Houses in Multiple Occupation
  Latest updates on the new regulations on HMOs and Article 4 Directions and Milton Keynes request for a judicial review. Please help us by sharing your experiences.
• Amendment to PPS3: Housing – Garden Land  
  Practical advice on the PPS3: Housing policies on "garden grabbing" introduced in June 2010. Please help us by sharing your experiences of implementing this policy.
• Good Practice Guide to Public Engagement in Development Schemes  
  The RTPI fully endorses this guidance which provides practical advice for everyone involved in public engagement in development schemes. It is illustrated by real examples of good practice an provides information and assistance to those planning, engaging in, or assessing community consultation. Published by Planning Aid England and Planning Aid for London.
• RTPI Planning Awards: Celebrating Best Practice  
  Provides inspiration for planners by outlining the successful elements of the 63 winners and commended entries of the RTPI Planning Awards from the last four years - 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 provide examples of the very best in town planning practice.
• Good Practice Notes
  We have 7 good practice notes providing detailed practice advice.

Delivering Good Practice Guidance

• We draw on the expertise of our Research, Policy and Nations and Regions staff when formulating practice advice, based upon the parameters set out in our Policy and Practice Strategy.
• The knowledge and experiences of the members of our Networks and Associations provide invaluable input.
• The Planning Policy and Practice Committee provide an overview of our practice work.
• Planners in the Workplace supports members throughout their careers and help them develop as planners, managers and as leaders in the workplace.
• We also maintain strong links with Planning Aid in relation to good practice.

Lifelong Learning

Effective planning practice is underpinned by lifelong learning and continuing professional development as required by the RTPI Code of Professional Conduct. 

If you have any comments or questions relating to RTPI practice advice email practice@rtpi.org.uk

Planning to Live with Climate Change 

Climate change poses a professional challenge to all planners. The choices we make today around the way we plan, design and build our places and communities will have significant repercussions for the future. 

• Read our Seven Commitments on climate change
• Read about our progress so far
• Climate change Good Practice Compendium