Congratulation to Samantha Wightman.
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".
