How can we use local planning to better address climate change? (English planning systems)

This course provides an introduction to how planning can help deliver action at a local level towards climate mitigation and resilience. It draws from practical experience, good practice case studies and TCPA research.

It will explore transport, quality housing and renewable energy, and climate adaptation to flooding and overheating risks. The course will also provide an overview of the context of planning reform and its current implications for local plan making in England.  

“A wonderfully encouraging and inspiring session, thank you very much.”  

– TCPA course attendee –

What will the training cover?  

The training will focus on the English Town & Country Planning system, with an emphasis on the opportunities presented through plan making to address key climate change challenges at a local level. The training will introduce policy approaches that the local plan can take to key issues, as well as best practice from local authorities.

• Policy opportunities for climate mitigation: including carbon accounting, renewable energy, sustainable travel, energy efficient buildings.  

• Policy opportunities for climate adaptation and resilience: including flood resilience, overheating, resource efficiency, green infrastructure and coastal change management.  

Presentations will be followed by a Q&A session.  

Who is the training for?  

This introductory training is ideal for early career planners, other local authority officers working in sustainability and climate change related areas, local councillors, or others involved in neighbourhood planning.

Who will deliver the training? 

Hugh Ellis (TCPA Director of Policy) leads research projects, public affairs work and has extensive experience delivering training for politicians, professionals and communities on the planning system. He has led the TCPA’s engagement on national planning reform.  

Celia Davis (TCPA Senior Projects and Policy Manager) produces guidance, advice and training for local authorities and communities on planning for climate change. She has led research into the effectiveness of the planning system in addressing climate change and delivering flood resilient communities.