Winner:
Laura Eacott
Laura Eacott is an exceptional candidate for the Young Planner of the Year award, demonstrating rapid career progression, deep understanding of planning policy, and leadership in complex projects. In just 3.5 years, she has secured planning permissions across Kent, Surrey, and Sussex, including major developments on former green belt land.
Laura shows thought leadership by authoring strategy notes, presenting policy changes, and actively participating in industry networks. Committed to professional development, she achieved chartered status swiftly, earning two promotions in 2024. A role model for young professionals, Laura also leads Savills’ Women’s Network and champions mental well-being initiatives.
Judges' citation
The judges were impressed, not only by Laura's submission, but also her clarity, style and engaging presentation at the interview. She demonstrated pride in her work, enjoyment in leading large and complex applications right through the process, and an ability to work with and negotiate with a wide range of stakeholders.
Laura is clearly a valuable team member in the company, having progressed rapidly and is now sharing her experiences with other, more junior colleagues as a mentor. She demonstrated her commitment to the profession and her particular interest in the natural environment, with BNG and Local Nature Recovery having become a real passion and specialism.
Her understanding of the wider context of planning, the way national changes are and will impact on planning, her interest in and support for new planners entering the profession and her practical planning experience convinced judges that Laura would be a great advocate for the profession as Young Planner of the Year. Congratulations!
Shortlist
Amelia Powell
After undertaking a dissertation on the extent urban planning considers women, Amelia was inspired to continue research and advocate for considering the needs of women in development. This led to co-founding HerCollective, to facilitate the exploration of architecture, urban planning, and design through a gendered lens.
This has involved teaching opportunities, further research and collaboration with both planning and architecture professionals, but also the general public of all ages, to continue the conversation about inclusive design. Since joining Savills, Amelia hopes to continue spreading awareness on this topic whilst also being on the RTPI Thames Valley Young Planners committee.
Harry McCorkell
Harry started his planning career as a summer placement at Smith Jenkins, and progressed to become a Chartered Member of the RTPI in December 2024. He is an advocate for the planning profession, encouraging junior members of the team, as well as summer placement, T-level and work experience students. He has a calm and conscientious approach, and acts diligently and professionally with clients, case officers and consultant teams to achieve successful planning outcomes.
Zac Denton
Zac’s expertise has been honed through diverse experience and academic achievement. His work spans residential, leisure, and listed building projects, demonstrating a commitment to positive outcomes through negotiation and good planning practice.
Notably, he led the Brighton Youth Centre application and managed complex discharge of conditions. Zac’s enthusiasm extends to technical innovation, team leadership, and active engagement with the RTPI and Commonwealth Association of Planners. As SCYPN chair, he’s delivered impactful CPD events, mentored aspiring planners and served as a dedicated role model.