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Conference

Inside the council: a day in the life of a local authority planner

25 June 2026 at 17:00 - 19:30
Pegasus Group, 1 Newhall Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, United Kingdom, B3 3NH
Organised by RTPI West Midlands

Ever wondered what local planning authority planners really do? This is your opportunity to hear directly from officers working in development management, planning policy and enforcement.

Join the RTPI West Midlands Young Planners for an evening exploring the realities of working within a local planning authority. Speakers will share insights into their day-to-day roles, the challenges they face, and their career journeys, alongside practical guidance on how planning decisions are made in practice.

The session will also provide useful advice on how to engage effectively with local planning authorities and build strong working relationships with planning officers.

This event is particularly suited to students, apprentices, graduates and early-career planners looking to build their understanding of how planning operates at a local authority level.

What you'll gain:

  • A clearer understanding of the roles and responsibilities within local planning authorities
  • Insight into how planning decisions are made in practice
  • Practical tips for engaging effectively with planning officers and building professional relationships
Programme
Speakers

Take a look at our speakers below 

Imogen Hopkin
South Staffordshire District Council
Jade Bagley
Principal Planning Policy Officer, Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council
Aidan Kimbley
Planning Enforcement Officer, Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council

Getting to the venue

Pegasus Group offices are in Birmingham.

By train: snow Hill Station is about a five‑minute walk away, and Birmingham New Street Station is around ten to twelve minutes on foot.

By bus: the venue is close to several major city‑centre bus stops on Colmore Row, Corporation Street, and Snow Hill Queensway, all served by numerous routes across Birmingham.

By car: you will find several car parks nearby, including those around Snow Hill and Livery Street.

By taxi: taxis can drop you off directly on Newhall Street, typically within 20 to 40 metres of the building entrance.

Before you set off, it's worth checking for any updates – e.g. ongoing roadworks in the area that might affect your journey.

Access and inclusion

We're committed to making sure everyone has a great experience at our events. Once you've booked, we'll get in touch to talk through any access needs or requirements you might have. If you have any questions in the meantime, just contact westmidlands@rtpi.org.uk – we're here to help.

Tickets

We offer free tickets for carers and have a limited number of free or discounted tickets for those working in the public sector, students, and those on low incomes or unemployed. Contact us to check availability.

If you wish to make a group booking, please contact westmidlands@rtpi.org.uk