Core CPD Framework:
- Placemaking and design
- Development and infrastructure design
- 7 CPD hours
Training goal
Using practice examples and experience, this masterclass will provide key knowledge and insights on how best to navigate strategic sites through the planning system. From early inception and Local Plans, to securing planning permissions and managing the places longer-term.
For this masterclass, the main focus will be on residential-led strategic sites at scale (typically 1,500 homes upwards), such as urban extensions and new settlements, but key principles are also applicable to many smaller scale projects.
Learning outcomes
- Understand how best to select and defend a strategic site through the Local Plan process, including evidence and joint working approaches, and the pitfalls to avoid.
- Identify and appraise the different design tools and documents that can be used, to ensure a high-quality, but adaptable place, can be delivered.
- Review the nature and structure of outline planning applications and permissions, as the basis for future delivery and, what to avoid.
- Understand the timing, nature, advantages and disadvantages of different engagement approaches, and the methods and techniques to be employed.
- Make the connections between the plan making and development management processes, in order to achieve sustainable development objectives and, delivery of the sites.
- Build your confidence about how best to progress sites in your areas and, manage the risks.
- Identify the principal options for how strategic sites can be managed and governed, for the benefit of the community and longer-term place making.
CPD masterclass structure and delivery
This masterclass is delivered in two parts. You will start with Part 1: Self-guided learning, which consists of trainer’s video presentations, and exercises on the RTPI Learn platform. The self-guided learning will take approximately four hours to complete, which you can arrange around your other commitments. This flexible learning prepares you for the live interactive Part 2: Online workshop, with your trainer and peers.
Your masterclass enrolment key will be sent on the day the masterclass is scheduled to open, as you see below. Please use this enrolment key to enrol for your masterclass.
- 28 September 2026 – Part 1: Self-guided learning opens for you from this date.
- 27 October 2026 – Part 2: Online workshop (14:00 to 16:30)
The masterclass is delivered by a trainer expert in the field.
Masterclass booking guidance
- RTPI members have to log into their RTPI account to make the booking.
- Bookings for non-members can be done as a group booking by their administrators.
- If you have complex group booking needs, including RTPI members and non-members for different masterclasses, we will be happy to assist. Please send your request in writing to training@rtpi.org.uk.
- If your organisation is not registered on the RTPI system, it will need to be registered. Please contact the finance team at finance@rtpi.org.uk or call 0207 929 8335.
- Invoice bookings are available if the minimum invoice total is £280 plus £70 VAT.
- If the invoice total is less than £280 plus £70 VAT, only credit/debit card bookings are available.
- For public sector organisations purchase orders are mandatory. Please send these to training@rtpi.org.uk
- All our online masterclasses are recorded by default.
- If you need further assistance with your booking, email training@rtpi.org.uk or contact us on 020 7929 8400.
