Core CPD Framework:
- Digital Planning
- Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Professional Ethics
- Business Planning and Management
- 3 CPD Hours
Event Description
AI is emerging as a powerful tool to enhance decision-making, streamline planning processes, and improve the way we use and manage our built environment.
However, many are still unsure how to optimise its use and may be uneasy about its impact on jobs within the planning sector. There are also overarching concerns about ethics and data protection, and the legal framework is trying to catch up.
Alongside AI there are also other emerging technologies which can significantly enhance the way we do planning.
This event organised by Gloucestershire Young Plannners will examine the current and potential uses of AI and other technologies in planning in both the public and private sector; including the opportunities they present and how to manage perceived risks. Speakers will outline the projects they are involved with to provide a framework for good practice.
We will also have product demonstrations including a land search platform, virtual reality tools and a platform for public sector planners to manage applications more quickly and efficiently.
The speakers aim to answer questions such as:
- How can emerging technologies make planning more engaging, relatable, and accessible to communities?
- How can we use AI in planning?
- How can AI best enhance planning work and how can we make it part of an organisation’s culture?
- What tools are available to aid planning practice and how do I choose what works for me?
- How do I get the most out of free access AI tools like ChatGPT?
- What legislation and guidance is in place to manage use of AI in planning appeals, witness statements and legal challenges?
- How does using AI fit with ethical and data protection requirements?
- How can we work with AI and not in competition with it?
- What are the other potential pitfalls of using AI and other technologies in planning practice and how can these be avoided?
- How might the potential for AI and emerging technology differ between public and private sector?
Whether you have no idea how AI works, are exploring the possibilities of AI or you are already implementing tech-led solutions, this forward-thinking event is a great opportunity to connect, learn, and shape the way we do planning.
Learning outcomes
- Learn how to use AI and emerging technological tools to enhance planning practice.
- Understand the law and legal responsibilities relating to use of AI, and how to use AI within the parameters of the RTPI Code of Conduct
- Consider how AI can be integrated into an organisation and become part of working culture
Programme
- 8.30 am – Arrival, refreshments and opportunity to find out more about planning technology tools and software.
- 9.10 – 9.15 – Introductions from RTPI Gloucestershire Young Planners and HCR Cheltenham
SCOPE OF AI IN PLANNING AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT SECTOR
- 9.15 – 9.35 – Scope of AI in planning and How planning organisations can integrate AI into their working culture and practices
Ciaran Hagan, Savills - 9.35 – 9.55 – Experiences from the Built Environment Sector – how ICENI use AI into their Health impact assessment team, products available and how this can apply to planners
Ollie Harris, ICENI - 9.55 – 10.15 – Digital and gaming technology solutions in public sector planning
Simon Mabey, Digitalurban.place - 10.15 – 10.25 - Q&A
USING FREE AI TOOLS
- 10.25 – 10.50 – Beginners guide to using LLMs (Large Language Models e.g. ChatGPT) in planning practice
Jos Pink - 10.50 – 11.00 – Refreshment break
LEGAL AND ETHICAL FRAMEWORK
- 11.00 – 11.20 – Ethical questions when using AI in planning and experiences developing an AI tool for GLA
Harry Quartermain, LandTech - 11.20 – 11.40 – Using AI in legal challenges, appeals, statements and evidence.
Laura Greenman - 11.40 – 11.50 - Q&A
USING BESPOKE AI TOOLS
- 11.50 – 12.40 – Breakout sessions using technology in planning with product demonstrations from Landstack and Xylo
- 12.40 onwards – Optional breakout session on VR for public consultations with Digital Urban
- 12.40 - LUNCH
- 1.30 - Close
Speakers:
- Ciaran Hagan – Savills
- Laura Greenman – HCR
- Harry Quartermain – LandTech
- Ollie Harris - ICENI
- Simon Mabey – Digital Urban. Place
- Jos Pink –
Demonstrations:
Xylo is an AI startup transforming planning processes for LPAs across the UK. Our AI assistant supports the entire development management flow—from submission to determination—freeing up over a day each week per officer to focus on the planning magic.
Shaped by 200+ hours spent with planning officers, Xylo is setting the benchmark for responsible AI in public services.
Landstack‘s land information platform provides standardised planning and development data across the whole of Great Britain. Access planning applications, local plan policies, land availability assessments, comparable information, ownership, constraints, biodiversity net gain (BNG), and more through a powerful GIS system enhanced by industry-leading AI tools that let you query and report on any piece of land.
Digitalurban.Place harness digital technology and computer game technology to invite an audience to see a space, place or product in a different way.
They leverage the latest in digital twin, XR and gaming technology to provide state-of-the-art solutions to support a range of organisations. Their 3D models help people to visualise spaces and places to support public consultations, planning applications and planning decisions.
Their tools are designed to be user-friendly for all stakeholders, including community members, client employees and across all demographics.
Venue Accessibility
• There is an accessible entrance at the side of the venue, off Wellington Street.
• Parking is available in Cheltenham town centre, within 5 minutes walk.
• Nearest train station is Cheltenham Spa, approximately 20 minutes walk.
• There are breakout spaces available and a disabled toilet.
The RTPI is committed to delivering inclusive events; to make sure that everyone can have the best possible experience. To help work towards being able to do this an event organiser will contact all booked participants to discuss any access needs or requirements that they might have. Contact Charlotte Daborn to discuss any questions or concerns you may have.
Catering
• Breakfast pastries and buffet (sandwich) lunch included. Please provide and special dietary requests at the point of booking or contacting us.
Host
Kindly hosted by:
