Applied Through: Experienced Practitioner Route

Commended: PES and PCS

Qualifications

BA (Hons) Town Planning – Newcastle University

MSc Planning, Design and Development - University College London

Experiences

I joined David Lock Associates (DLA) as a ‘Year Out’ Assistant Planner where I was responsible for assisting in the preparation and submission of planning applications for development proposals across the UK. I grew in confidence and became firmly embedded in an onshore wind project where I gained enhanced knowledge of the planning processes involved at each stage of development. I made the move from private to public sector and began working as a Planning Assistant at Tewkesbury Borough Council (TBC). 

A temporary relocation saw my return home to the place which first inspired me to embark on a career in planning - the Lake District. I was appointed as Policy Planner at the Lake District National Park Authority amid their Local Plan Review and applied my previous experiences to prepare evidence-base documentation and lead on potential site allocations.  

I re-commenced my role at TBC and progressed to Senior Planning Officer. I manage a varied caseload of applications and enjoy the diversity of working within Tewkesbury Borough where the interplay of various constraints, combined with growing development pressures, present a continual challenge that serves to further my professional development.

APC Tips

Don’t panic! The APC can appear a daunting task but start by becoming familiar with the guidance and make sure you understand what is required for each section and each of the competencies. You cannot read the guidance enough times – read, re-read and read again!

Keeping in touch. The PES needs to be corroborated by previous employers and it makes the APC process so much easier if you’re still in contact and on good terms with your former workplace(s).