A new networking body which aims to create a supportive environment to encourage greater inclusivity within the planning industry is set to host its first event in the East Midlands next month
Women in Planning is an independent organisation that champions diversity and inclusivity in the planning industry through insightful events. To celebrate the launch of its new East Midlands presence, the group is hosting an informal evening of networking at Revolucion de Cuba in Nottingham on 14 November.
The inaugural event is open to both men and women looking to build new business contacts and strengthen ties within the region’s planning industry in a relaxed environment.
Guests will enjoy drinks upon arrival followed by presentations from special guest speakers including Chris Jesson MRTPI, associate town planner at P&DG, who will be discussing the opportunities and challenges facing the region’s planning and development sector. Leadership and development consultant, Sue Frost will also be attending the evening and will explore the importance of collaborative leadership.
Charlotte Lockwood, associate at Roythornes Solicitors and co-chair of Women in Planning East Midlands, said: “Women in Planning is about encouraging the industry to come together to discuss and raise awareness of shared challenges as a single community, whilst learning from industry experts.
“I attended the first meeting of the West Midlands branch earlier this year and I was really impressed by the discussions being held and the enthusiasm to build connections. We’re hoping to replicate this success with the launch in Nottingham and, given the strong demand for tickets we’ve experienced so far, I’m confident that we’ll easily achieve this.
“It’s set to be a great night and I hope to see as many people as possible on 14 November. Plans are already coming together for our second event, which is set to be a personal development seminar taking place in January next year.”
Established by Alison McKay and Charlotte Morphet in 2012, Women in Planning now has 14 regional branches across the UK. The new East Midlands branch will cover Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and the surrounding areas.
