A co-founder of the renowned POoR Collective and two prominent architectural journalists are among the newest group of built environment professionals who have been selected to fill local planning positions through the Public Practice program. This latest cohort represents a diverse mix of expertise that will be embedded within local government planning departments across the United Kingdom.
Public Practice, the innovative organization that places skilled professionals from the architecture and design sectors into local authority roles, announced the placement of these new participants as part of its ongoing mission to strengthen public sector capacity in planning and development. The program has gained recognition for bridging the gap between private sector expertise and public sector needs, particularly in areas where local councils face resource constraints and skills shortages.
The inclusion of journalists in this cohort marks a notable development for the program, bringing media and communication expertise into planning roles where public engagement and transparency are increasingly important. These professionals will contribute their skills in storytelling, public communication, and critical analysis to help local authorities better engage with communities on planning matters.
The POoR Collective co-founder brings valuable experience from an organization known for its work in addressing spatial inequality and advocating for more inclusive approaches to architecture and urban planning. POoR Collective has been instrumental in highlighting issues of accessibility, affordability, and social justice within the built environment sector, making this placement particularly significant for advancing progressive planning practices at the local government level.
Through the Public Practice program, these professionals will work directly within local planning departments, contributing their specialized knowledge while gaining firsthand experience of how planning decisions are made and implemented. The program typically involves placements that last between 12 to 24 months, during which participants work on real projects while helping to build long-term capacity within their host authorities.
This latest cohort reflects Public Practice's commitment to diversifying the types of expertise available to local government, moving beyond traditional planning backgrounds to include professionals who can bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to urban development challenges. The program continues to evolve as it addresses the complex needs of both local authorities and the communities they serve.
