Town Planner

Town planners are responsible for the appropriate development of urban and rural spaces and for land use, having to ensure that any building projects take into account the views of the general public as well as local and county councils, regulatory authorities and heritage bodies. They administer the planning process for individual projects, to ensure that all conditions attached to a planning approval are met.

For work on traditional buildings, the role of the planner is essential in ensuring (in consultation with the conservation officer) that any work is executed in sympathy with the individual building and its historic context, reflecting the needs and aspirations of the local area and keeping in line with national (and sometimes international) legislation and regulations. Planners also have a major role in influencing the design and specification in works carried out in most of the HLF-funded Townscape Heritage Initiatives (THIs).

For more information on a career as a town planner, including qualifications and education visit Careers Advice.