WINNER - Young Planner of the Year
Samantha Wightman, Newcastle City Council
Samantha Wightman is nominated for the RTPI Young Planner of the Year award for her exceptional contribution to Planning promoting innovation and digital change in Planning. As both a Student Planner and Graduate Planner, she has driven significant advancements in Planning at Newcastle. Samantha's work includes supporting the implementation a digital site assessment tool, evaluating back-office planning systems, and developing new approaches to housing policy work. She organised the National Open Digital Planning Conference in 2024 and has been pivotal in fields of digital innovation. Samantha's dedication and leadership qualities make her a deserving candidate for this prestigious award.
The judges said,
"A very strong entry. Samantha is clearly a very dedicated and enthusiastic young planner leading digital change in planning in the north east. She is shown to be collaborative and engaging across all levels and proactive in local networks and championing planning".
Samantha Wightman said,
"I am truly honoured to have been awarded the RTPI North East Young Planner of the Year 2025. This recognition means a great deal to me, and I am thrilled to have achieved it in my career. I am especially proud that the award was given for my contribution to digital innovation in planning, which is an area I am deeply passionate about.
Working in a local authority, I believe it is essential that we lead the way in digital transformation within planning. It is important that we embrace change and ensure we are not left behind. I hope to continue championing this progress as my career develops.
Attending the awards and seeing all the incredible work taking place across the North East was truly heart warming. It was inspiring to be surrounded by so many talented and dedicated professionals who are making a real difference in our communities. The evening was a powerful reminder of the strength, creativity, and innovation within the planning profession in our region".
