WHBC Shortlisted for Planning Authority of the Year Award

The RTPI is the UK’s leading professional body for town planning, setting high standards across the sector and accrediting top-tier planning courses nationally and internationally. Its annual awards celebrate the very best plans, projects and people in the planning profession.

The 'Planning Authority of the Year' category recognises local authorities that demonstrate exceptional commitment to planning, innovation and delivering positive outcomes for their communities. WHBC is one of just three authorities to be shortlisted across the East of England region – alongside Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service and South Norfolk and Broadlands Councils – making this nomination a significant achievement.

Since adopting its Local Plan in October 2023, WHBC’s Planning Policy team has been implementing its policies and working with developers to increase sustainable growth, protect green spaces and support housing and employment needs across the borough. The council’s nomination recognises not only this but a range of recent achievements, including:

• The establishment of the new Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), ensuring that development contributes to local infrastructure needs.
• The master planning of strategic sites such as North West Hatfield and Marshmoor, paving the way for new homes and employment opportunities.
• The introduction of the Sustainability Supplementary Planning Document, which enhances the environmental standards of new developments and supports the council’s commitment to tackling climate change.

Councillor Rose Grewal, Executive Member Planning, said:

“I am delighted that our Planning Policy team has been shortlisted for this prestigious award. This nomination is recognition of the team’s dedication and hard work in strengthening our policy framework to promote high-quality development. The successful delivery of our Local Plan is central to shaping sustainable, well-designed places that put the needs of our community at their heart. I wholeheartedly congratulate the team on this achievement and wish them the very best of luck at the awards ceremony.”

The awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday 18 June in Cambridge. Winners from the regional awards will go on to compete at the RTPI’s national Awards for Planning Excellence later this year.