engagement
Spotlighting Places & Projects for Sustainability
🌱Transforming Local Green Spaces!
🎤I joined Mia-Ming Steel, cofounder of @rootedcityproject to talk all about the importance of accessible nature in urban environments.
🚮Having identified a site that was neglected and dangerously being used for fly-tipping, this community-led group developed in response. Through volunteering and partnership with local stakeholders like @middlesexuniversity @wearekier @marlborough_highways, they began clearing up the space. Now established in the area, they have been offered to develop a more permanent community garden at the other end of the park.
🏅Acknowledged for her initiative and dedication, Mia was highly commended as part of the @barnetcouncil Environment and Sustainability Awards. She was nominated by Councillor Humayune Khalick, Colindale South Ward, noting “I believe that her efforts deserve recognition not only for her work so far but as this will help enormously in helping her with future projects in the Borough.”
💭Where is your nearest green space and how could it be improved?
🌱Transforming Local Green Spaces!
🎤I joined Mia-Ming Steel, cofounder of @rootedcityproject to talk all about the importance of accessible nature in urban environments.
🚮Having identified a site that was neglected and dangerously being used for fly-tipping, this community-led group developed in response. Through volunteering and partnership with local stakeholders like @middlesexuniversity @wearekier @marlborough_highways, they began clearing up the space. Now established in the area, they have been offered to develop a more permanent community garden at the other end of the park.
🏅Acknowledged for her initiative and dedication, Mia was highly commended as part of the @barnetcouncil Environment and Sustainability Awards. She was nominated by Councillor Humayune Khalick, Colindale South Ward, noting “I believe that her efforts deserve recognition not only for her work so far but as this will help enormously in helping her with future projects in the Borough.”
💭Where is your nearest green space and how could it be improved?
📍Vision du Patrimoine – Ville de Québec !
🏅L’arrondissement historique du Vieux-Québec possède un patrimoine exceptionnel, reconnu notamment par l’UNESCO.
📝Selon La Vision du Patrimoine Plan d’Action 2022-2027, le patrimoine est défini comme:« l’ensemble des biens matériels et immatériels, d’ordre naturel ou culturel, hérités du passé et façonnés par le quotidien, que l’on reconnaît, protège, conserve, met en valeur, s’approprie, transmet et continue à enrichir. »
🏘️Les avantages du patrimoine sur la qualité de vie sont également mis en évidence. Il est notamment souligné que le patrimoine:
➡️Génère un puissant sentiment identitaire;
il est porteur d’un riche potentiel créatif qui stimule la vitalité, la qualité de vie et la prospérité de notre ville.
➡️Est un bien collectif; il évoque le partage et le dialogue, source de respect et de cohésion.
➡️Crée de la richesse par le maintien et la création d’emplois, le tourisme et l’augmentation de la valeur des propriétés.
💭Pourquoi, selon vous, est-il important de valoriser le patrimoine ?
📍Vision du Patrimoine – Ville de Québec !
🏅L’arrondissement historique du Vieux-Québec possède un patrimoine exceptionnel, reconnu notamment par l’UNESCO.
📝Selon La Vision du Patrimoine Plan d’Action 2022-2027, le patrimoine est défini comme:« l’ensemble des biens matériels et immatériels, d’ordre naturel ou culturel, hérités du passé et façonnés par le quotidien, que l’on reconnaît, protège, conserve, met en valeur, s’approprie, transmet et continue à enrichir. »
🏘️Les avantages du patrimoine sur la qualité de vie sont également mis en évidence. Il est notamment souligné que le patrimoine:
➡️Génère un puissant sentiment identitaire;
il est porteur d’un riche potentiel créatif qui stimule la vitalité, la qualité de vie et la prospérité de notre ville.
➡️Est un bien collectif; il évoque le partage et le dialogue, source de respect et de cohésion.
➡️Crée de la richesse par le maintien et la création d’emplois, le tourisme et l’augmentation de la valeur des propriétés.
💭Pourquoi, selon vous, est-il important de valoriser le patrimoine ?
🔍Animal Tracking!
🌲Following animal tracks through fresh snow in Algonquin reveals far more than just movement; it uncovers a living web of relationships across ecosystems.
🐾A moose’s deep hoofprints led to browsed branches, showing where it fed and how its height shapes the forest. We also saw a grouse, where nearby imprints evidenced sudden flight and foraging. Fox and wolf prints showed “perfect walking”, with rear paws landing in the front paw marks to conserve energy across the thick snow.
🔄Reading these traces reminds us how interlinked our actions are. Like these animals, our choices ripple outward, shaping environments that then go on to shape us back again. Despite our footprints often feeling invisible, they leave lasting marks even as individuals.
💭What do the signs we leave behind say about us as humans?
🔍Animal Tracking!
🌲Following animal tracks through fresh snow in Algonquin reveals far more than just movement; it uncovers a living web of relationships across ecosystems.
🐾A moose’s deep hoofprints led to browsed branches, showing where it fed and how its height shapes the forest. We also saw a grouse, where nearby imprints evidenced sudden flight and foraging. Fox and wolf prints showed “perfect walking”, with rear paws landing in the front paw marks to conserve energy across the thick snow.
🔄Reading these traces reminds us how interlinked our actions are. Like these animals, our choices ripple outward, shaping environments that then go on to shape us back again. Despite our footprints often feeling invisible, they leave lasting marks even as individuals.
💭What do the signs we leave behind say about us as humans?
🌳Le mont Royal!
📍Le mont Royal est une colline située au cœur de Montréal. Symbole de la ville, il offre un grand parc et des panoramas spectaculaires.
📑Le Plan d’urbanisme et de mobilité 2050 (PUM) résume quatre objectifs pour le territoire emblématique du mont Royal:
➡️Reconduire la notion de capacité limite de la montagne afin d’assurer la conciliation entre les nouvelles fonctions et la préservation du patrimoine.
➡️Préserver et accroitre les milieux naturels et la biodiversité de ce site d’exception.
➡️Redonner la place à la mobilité active et collective.
➡️Révéler le mont Royal comme lieu rassembleur des communautés montréalaises.
🏗️PUM est “le document officiel de planification de l’aménagement du territoire et de la mobilité de la Ville de Montréal.” Il est important parce qu’il prépare la ville à long terme face aux grands défis à venir.
💭Quels sont les objectifs de votre Plan pour l’avenir de votre quartier ?
🌳Le mont Royal!
📍Le mont Royal est une colline située au cœur de Montréal. Symbole de la ville, il offre un grand parc et des panoramas spectaculaires.
📑Le Plan d’urbanisme et de mobilité 2050 (PUM) résume quatre objectifs pour le territoire emblématique du mont Royal:
➡️Reconduire la notion de capacité limite de la montagne afin d’assurer la conciliation entre les nouvelles fonctions et la préservation du patrimoine.
➡️Préserver et accroitre les milieux naturels et la biodiversité de ce site d’exception.
➡️Redonner la place à la mobilité active et collective.
➡️Révéler le mont Royal comme lieu rassembleur des communautés montréalaises.
🏗️PUM est “le document officiel de planification de l’aménagement du territoire et de la mobilité de la Ville de Montréal.” Il est important parce qu’il prépare la ville à long terme face aux grands défis à venir.
💭Quels sont les objectifs de votre Plan pour l’avenir de votre quartier ?
📸Street Photography!
🏙️Capturing candid moments of everyday life can help us appreciate and better understand the urban experience.
🔎Like all forms of art, our environment (natural and built) is processed through our own unique lens. Whether we define something as beautiful, accessible and safe will vary from person to person. This interpretation can often be revealed in street photography, where we can sense how someone feels about a place, or what they want us to feel, by the way the pictures have been taken.
🤔This makes it important to challenge what we see, making room for nuance and diverse perspectives. Even without featuring humans, buildings and infrastructure imply our presence and tell a story about people. Observation and imagination tend to be interlinked, which is why it’s important to critically consider images with questions like “who is taking the picture and why?”, “in what light is this portraying a place?” and “what else could be going on outside of the frame?”
💭What do these photos tell you about Montreal?
📸Street Photography!
🏙️Capturing candid moments of everyday life can help us appreciate and better understand the urban experience.
🔎Like all forms of art, our environment (natural and built) is processed through our own unique lens. Whether we define something as beautiful, accessible and safe will vary from person to person. This interpretation can often be revealed in street photography, where we can sense how someone feels about a place, or what they want us to feel, by the way the pictures have been taken.
🤔This makes it important to challenge what we see, making room for nuance and diverse perspectives. Even without featuring humans, buildings and infrastructure imply our presence and tell a story about people. Observation and imagination tend to be interlinked, which is why it’s important to critically consider images with questions like “who is taking the picture and why?”, “in what light is this portraying a place?” and “what else could be going on outside of the frame?”
💭What do these photos tell you about Montreal?
🌊Montmorency Falls!
🏞️Despite being taller than Niagara Falls, Montmorency Falls is significantly less known as a Canadian natural landmark.
🏅However, Parc de la Chute-Montmorency (Montmorency Falls Park) is the first tourist attraction in the Greater Québec City area to obtain a @biospheresustainable certification. This is a framework that aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which guide global development priorities. The aim is to provide a way to implement the SDGs, “verifying that sustainable practices are being properly implemented”.
✅Split into the three categories of ‘Environment and Climate Change’, ‘Society and Culture’ and ‘Governance and Economy’, the group’s scoring is publicly available on the Biosphere website. This includes achieving ‘outstanding contribution’ across 13 of the 17 SDGs.
💭Do you consider whether a destination prioritises sustainability before visiting?
🌊Montmorency Falls!
🏞️Despite being taller than Niagara Falls, Montmorency Falls is significantly less known as a Canadian natural landmark.
🏅However, Parc de la Chute-Montmorency (Montmorency Falls Park) is the first tourist attraction in the Greater Québec City area to obtain a @biospheresustainable certification. This is a framework that aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which guide global development priorities. The aim is to provide a way to implement the SDGs, “verifying that sustainable practices are being properly implemented”.
✅Split into the three categories of ‘Environment and Climate Change’, ‘Society and Culture’ and ‘Governance and Economy’, the group’s scoring is publicly available on the Biosphere website. This includes achieving ‘outstanding contribution’ across 13 of the 17 SDGs.
💭Do you consider whether a destination prioritises sustainability before visiting?
🗓️CN Tower Turns 50!
📍Built in 1976, CN Tower celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, remaining one of Canada’s most recognisable landmarks.
🗺️CN Tower also has global significance as the world’s tallest free-standing structure before it was surpassed by the Burj Khalifa, still the tallest in the Western Hemisphere today. The tower was built in response to the unprecedented boom of skyscrapers in Toronto across the 1960s, providing a high enough antenna to solve transmission problems.
🏗️More than a unique case study of planning, engineering and construction, like many structures it holds emotional value. @cntower shares “For fifty years, the CN Tower has stood as a beacon of Canadian ingenuity and ambition—a symbol of what we can achieve together… The CN Tower is not just a landmark; it broadcasts the spirit of creativity, resilience, and inclusivity, ensuring everyone feels welcome and part of this shared story.”
💭Humans project meaning onto buildings, sometimes even celebrating their birthdays. How can we ensure that the built environment is respected and protected for generations to come?
🗓️CN Tower Turns 50!
📍Built in 1976, CN Tower celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, remaining one of Canada’s most recognisable landmarks.
🗺️CN Tower also has global significance as the world’s tallest free-standing structure before it was surpassed by the Burj Khalifa, still the tallest in the Western Hemisphere today. The tower was built in response to the unprecedented boom of skyscrapers in Toronto across the 1960s, providing a high enough antenna to solve transmission problems.
🏗️More than a unique case study of planning, engineering and construction, like many structures it holds emotional value. @cntower shares “For fifty years, the CN Tower has stood as a beacon of Canadian ingenuity and ambition—a symbol of what we can achieve together… The CN Tower is not just a landmark; it broadcasts the spirit of creativity, resilience, and inclusivity, ensuring everyone feels welcome and part of this shared story.”
💭Humans project meaning onto buildings, sometimes even celebrating their birthdays. How can we ensure that the built environment is respected and protected for generations to come?
📍Designing with Indigenous Recognition
➡️Both Sankofa Square, Toronto and Kìwekì Point, Ottawa recognise Indigenous presence within urban landscapes that have long erased it.
🏗️Cities are not neutral, with even the most subtle design choices often shaped by power. Meaningful change requires more than symbolic gestures of course, but reframing places can challenge dangerous dominant narratives.
🏙️For example, last year ‘Yonge-Dundas’ Square’s name officially changed to ‘Sankofa’, which refers to “learning from the past to inform the future”. @cityofto shares that this was decided through significant public consultation and work with the Recognition Review Community Advisory Committee (CAC), which included “Black and Indigenous leaders, along with other diverse residents and business owners living and working along Dundas Street.”
🌱Previously ‘Nepean’ Point in Canada’s capital city, now ‘Kìwekì’ Point, refers to “returning to one’s homeland”. @ncc_ccn summarise that the changes provide “an opportunity to highlight Algonquin voices, and to showcase elements of Algonquin culture and language. Furthermore, the selected Indigenous names provide a unique opportunity for Canadians visiting the site to learn more about the Algonquin Nation.”
💭What stories have been silenced in your city, and how could they be brought to light for a better informed public?
📍Designing with Indigenous Recognition
➡️Both Sankofa Square, Toronto and Kìwekì Point, Ottawa recognise Indigenous presence within urban landscapes that have long erased it.
🏗️Cities are not neutral, with even the most subtle design choices often shaped by power. Meaningful change requires more than symbolic gestures of course, but reframing places can challenge dangerous dominant narratives.
🏙️For example, last year ‘Yonge-Dundas’ Square’s name officially changed to ‘Sankofa’, which refers to “learning from the past to inform the future”. @cityofto shares that this was decided through significant public consultation and work with the Recognition Review Community Advisory Committee (CAC), which included “Black and Indigenous leaders, along with other diverse residents and business owners living and working along Dundas Street.”
🌱Previously ‘Nepean’ Point in Canada’s capital city, now ‘Kìwekì’ Point, refers to “returning to one’s homeland”. @ncc_ccn summarise that the changes provide “an opportunity to highlight Algonquin voices, and to showcase elements of Algonquin culture and language. Furthermore, the selected Indigenous names provide a unique opportunity for Canadians visiting the site to learn more about the Algonquin Nation.”
💭What stories have been silenced in your city, and how could they be brought to light for a better informed public?
🌱London Nature Recovery Strategy!
📍Nature Recovery Strategies are about going beyond simply recognising the importance of nature, but identifying specific locations and priorities for action.
🌳The London Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) proposes to set out “which parts of our city’s nature need most urgent attention, what we need to do, and where we need to do it, to help nature flourish.” This is made up of two main parts, The Statement of Biodiversity Priorities and The Local Habitat Map.
💡Having a visual, clear understanding of this is both useful and exciting! For example, it was so interesting to learn that Sunny Hill Park has Woodland and Lowland Meadow habitats, even considered an Area of Particular Importance for Biodiversity (APIB).
💭How could you or your local organisations use Nature Recovery Strategies to help reverse biodiversity loss and allocate resources efficiently?
🌱London Nature Recovery Strategy!
📍Nature Recovery Strategies are about going beyond simply recognising the importance of nature, but identifying specific locations and priorities for action.
🌳The London Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) proposes to set out “which parts of our city’s nature need most urgent attention, what we need to do, and where we need to do it, to help nature flourish.” This is made up of two main parts, The Statement of Biodiversity Priorities and The Local Habitat Map.
💡Having a visual, clear understanding of this is both useful and exciting! For example, it was so interesting to learn that Sunny Hill Park has Woodland and Lowland Meadow habitats, even considered an Area of Particular Importance for Biodiversity (APIB).
💭How could you or your local organisations use Nature Recovery Strategies to help reverse biodiversity loss and allocate resources efficiently?
🏆Woman of Influence Nomination!
➡️I am incredibly honoured to have been nominated as a Women of Influence 2026 by The Planner.
🏗️We are very lucky across the profession to have such talented and dedicated individuals, which couldn’t be more clear from the other nominees. I truly believe that having access to this kind of expertise, mentorship and most importantly trust, in my career is what has helped me become a confident freelance consultant and build @urbanistonamission. From my early examples to now, I am constantly learning from others, including @annettefisherarchitect @helenfadipe.mrtpi @drweiyang @preach_inclusion, who lead with such clear ambitions for change.
🧩Thank you to the @theplanner_rtpi and judging panel, sharing in their comments: “She has pioneered the use of social channels as a planning ‘influencer’ to introduce the multifaceted world of planning to many, whilst platforming the impactful place-shaping work of many often missed organisations and community groups.”
🔑As we move away from International Women’s day, it is also important to highlight that so many in positions of power praise women publicly while failing to protect their rights, safety, and opportunities in practice. In working towards sustainable and resilient development, we must act against the dangers of representation without responsibility.
🏆Woman of Influence Nomination!
➡️I am incredibly honoured to have been nominated as a Women of Influence 2026 by The Planner.
🏗️We are very lucky across the profession to have such talented and dedicated individuals, which couldn’t be more clear from the other nominees. I truly believe that having access to this kind of expertise, mentorship and most importantly trust, in my career is what has helped me become a confident freelance consultant and build @urbanistonamission. From my early examples to now, I am constantly learning from others, including @annettefisherarchitect @helenfadipe.mrtpi @drweiyang @preach_inclusion, who lead with such clear ambitions for change.
🧩Thank you to the @theplanner_rtpi and judging panel, sharing in their comments: “She has pioneered the use of social channels as a planning ‘influencer’ to introduce the multifaceted world of planning to many, whilst platforming the impactful place-shaping work of many often missed organisations and community groups.”
🔑As we move away from International Women’s day, it is also important to highlight that so many in positions of power praise women publicly while failing to protect their rights, safety, and opportunities in practice. In working towards sustainable and resilient development, we must act against the dangers of representation without responsibility.
The Brain at Rest
So many of us are functioning, if at all, from a place of ‘fight, flight, freeze or fawn’ right now.
This book doesn’t fix anything, but I do believe it does a good job of highlighting the traps that can compromise our ability to stay healthy, make rational decisions and collaborate for productive solutions.
In a desperate attempt to process, I have personally found trying to understand the brain helpful. It is important to be aware of how much we need time alone, away from our screens and being out in nature to self-regulate and come back stronger, even if only a little bit at a time.
For those defining ‘urban existence’, concerned with adaptation and championing community resilience, there is so much in this book we can learn. Dr. Jebelli shows us how place shaping can lead to brain shaping, emphasising the public health responsibility of planning and design.
How could you use your local green and blue spaces to help take care of those around you?
The Brain at Rest
So many of us are functioning, if at all, from a place of ‘fight, flight, freeze or fawn’ right now.
This book doesn’t fix anything, but I do believe it does a good job of highlighting the traps that can compromise our ability to stay healthy, make rational decisions and collaborate for productive solutions.
In a desperate attempt to process, I have personally found trying to understand the brain helpful. It is important to be aware of how much we need time alone, away from our screens and being out in nature to self-regulate and come back stronger, even if only a little bit at a time.
For those defining ‘urban existence’, concerned with adaptation and championing community resilience, there is so much in this book we can learn. Dr. Jebelli shows us how place shaping can lead to brain shaping, emphasising the public health responsibility of planning and design.
How could you use your local green and blue spaces to help take care of those around you?
🗞️Planning RTPI Blog Feature!
📊The ‘State of the Profession 2025’ report found that a cumulative 29.4% of respondents became aware of the planning profession “through their school or university education, making educational outreach a particularly impactful mode of volunteering within the profession.”
📍This is why it was a pleasure for me to accept when Dr Jenny Lawy, Head of Geography at Hendon School, asked me to come speak to the students at the beginning of this year. Dr Lawy summarised:
🎤”From the moment she began speaking, it became clear just how vital planners are in creating the towns, cities, villages and even farming landscapes that we rely on every day. Mahsa helped us understand that the built world doesn’t just “happen”—it is carefully designed, assessed and improved by planners who balance community needs, environmental concerns, and long term sustainability. Whether deciding where new housing should go, improving transport links, or protecting green spaces, planners play a key role in making places safe, functional and enjoyable.”
🏗️In the wake of unprecedented financial investment and press coverage, the planning profession finds itself in a unique position. I believe planners must act to showcase the power of planning as a force for good, specifically to non-planners, in order to build the resilience and capacity of the system long-term.
💡We all have individual interests and skill sets that could help achieve this, what could that look like for you?
🗞️Planning RTPI Blog Feature!
📊The ‘State of the Profession 2025’ report found that a cumulative 29.4% of respondents became aware of the planning profession “through their school or university education, making educational outreach a particularly impactful mode of volunteering within the profession.”
📍This is why it was a pleasure for me to accept when Dr Jenny Lawy, Head of Geography at Hendon School, asked me to come speak to the students at the beginning of this year. Dr Lawy summarised:
🎤”From the moment she began speaking, it became clear just how vital planners are in creating the towns, cities, villages and even farming landscapes that we rely on every day. Mahsa helped us understand that the built world doesn’t just “happen”—it is carefully designed, assessed and improved by planners who balance community needs, environmental concerns, and long term sustainability. Whether deciding where new housing should go, improving transport links, or protecting green spaces, planners play a key role in making places safe, functional and enjoyable.”
🏗️In the wake of unprecedented financial investment and press coverage, the planning profession finds itself in a unique position. I believe planners must act to showcase the power of planning as a force for good, specifically to non-planners, in order to build the resilience and capacity of the system long-term.
💡We all have individual interests and skill sets that could help achieve this, what could that look like for you?
🏡Warm Homes Plan!
📑Last month the government published a “landmark plan to make the British people better off, secure our energy independence and tackle the climate crisis.”
💡Amongst other measures, this includes confirmation that from October 2030 landlords will be required to meet a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C, subject to exemptions. EPC ratings will be calculated by the ‘Home Energy Model’ methodology (HEM), which has four headline metrics:
– 🪟Fabric Performance: this is influenced by factors such as the level of insulation in the building, window quality, and airtightness.
– ♨️Heating System: an assessment of heating and cooling technologies.
– 📲Smart Readiness: the building’s potential to self-generate energy (usually from solar panels), and to integrate smart technologies that optimise energy consumption.
– 💷Energy Cost: the predicted costs of energy use (related to all three other metrics).
💭Details around this are currently under consultation until the 18th of March – which means you can have your say! Do you or someone you know have relevant technical knowledge to input?
🏡Warm Homes Plan!
📑Last month the government published a “landmark plan to make the British people better off, secure our energy independence and tackle the climate crisis.”
💡Amongst other measures, this includes confirmation that from October 2030 landlords will be required to meet a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C, subject to exemptions. EPC ratings will be calculated by the ‘Home Energy Model’ methodology (HEM), which has four headline metrics:
– 🪟Fabric Performance: this is influenced by factors such as the level of insulation in the building, window quality, and airtightness.
– ♨️Heating System: an assessment of heating and cooling technologies.
– 📲Smart Readiness: the building’s potential to self-generate energy (usually from solar panels), and to integrate smart technologies that optimise energy consumption.
– 💷Energy Cost: the predicted costs of energy use (related to all three other metrics).
💭Details around this are currently under consultation until the 18th of March – which means you can have your say! Do you or someone you know have relevant technical knowledge to input?
🎲Infrastructure and Monopoly Lifesized!
🚂In both the board game and real life, infrastructure is the quiet engine of value. In fact, my favourite assets on the board have always been the stations and utilities.
📑This mirrors themes across big legislative and policy changes going on in the UK. For example, The Planning and Infrastructure Bill reached Royal Assent in December and focuses heavily on accelerating delivery of transport hubs, grid connections and water capacity. This is because homes alone are not enough.
📍Sustainable infrastructure development can help unlock housing growth, determine viability and influence density. This emphasis also makes up core reforms in the proposed National Planning Policy Framework, which is currently open for consultation until the 10th of March!
💭Do you feel like you know enough about how the recent and proposed changes to the planning system could be impacting you locally?
🎲Infrastructure and Monopoly Lifesized!
🚂In both the board game and real life, infrastructure is the quiet engine of value. In fact, my favourite assets on the board have always been the stations and utilities.
📑This mirrors themes across big legislative and policy changes going on in the UK. For example, The Planning and Infrastructure Bill reached Royal Assent in December and focuses heavily on accelerating delivery of transport hubs, grid connections and water capacity. This is because homes alone are not enough.
📍Sustainable infrastructure development can help unlock housing growth, determine viability and influence density. This emphasis also makes up core reforms in the proposed National Planning Policy Framework, which is currently open for consultation until the 10th of March!
💭Do you feel like you know enough about how the recent and proposed changes to the planning system could be impacting you locally?
🏙️Property Market Updates!
🏗️Market reports closely track how people and organisations use space within a city, telling us a lot about a place.
📊This data reveals how prices and rents are shifting, where growth and investment are most concentrated, how different land uses are performing (e.g. commercial and residential), and much more.
📈Understating how demographic and employment trends influence spatial demand is important for town planners – but also many others like investors, developers, occupiers, and policymakers looking to assess opportunities and constraints. In a fast-moving, globally connected market like Dubai, conditions can shift quickly due to factors like regulatory reforms, new infrastructure and migration patterns.
💭Are you following market updates about your town or city? How much do they tell you about the social and environmental impacts of development?
🏙️Property Market Updates!
🏗️Market reports closely track how people and organisations use space within a city, telling us a lot about a place.
📊This data reveals how prices and rents are shifting, where growth and investment are most concentrated, how different land uses are performing (e.g. commercial and residential), and much more.
📈Understating how demographic and employment trends influence spatial demand is important for town planners – but also many others like investors, developers, occupiers, and policymakers looking to assess opportunities and constraints. In a fast-moving, globally connected market like Dubai, conditions can shift quickly due to factors like regulatory reforms, new infrastructure and migration patterns.
💭Are you following market updates about your town or city? How much do they tell you about the social and environmental impacts of development?
🌊Thirst Exhibition!
📣Today is the last day to see the free Thirst Exhibition at the @wellcomecollection.
🌧️’Thirst: In Search of Freshwater’ explores humanity’s vital connection with freshwater through Aridity, Rain, Glaciers, Surface Water and Groundwater. More than a critical source of life, the space showcases how water has shaped societies and urban development across time.
🗺️The key message I wanted to share from the exhibition is: “The water crisis we face today is often described as only an environmental issue. This masks exploitative practices like over-extraction, and other causes such as conflict. However, the regenerative power of water offers hope as we face the current climate crisis. We can learn from its cyclical, healing nature, as well as from communities, past and present, who create abundance out of scarcity.”
💡For example, traditional water engineering systems such as qanats are featured. Originating from Iran, this irrigation technology completely transformed water access and influenced countries around the world as a result. Are there any water engineering examples that have inspired you?
🌊Thirst Exhibition!
📣Today is the last day to see the free Thirst Exhibition at the @wellcomecollection.
🌧️’Thirst: In Search of Freshwater’ explores humanity’s vital connection with freshwater through Aridity, Rain, Glaciers, Surface Water and Groundwater. More than a critical source of life, the space showcases how water has shaped societies and urban development across time.
🗺️The key message I wanted to share from the exhibition is: “The water crisis we face today is often described as only an environmental issue. This masks exploitative practices like over-extraction, and other causes such as conflict. However, the regenerative power of water offers hope as we face the current climate crisis. We can learn from its cyclical, healing nature, as well as from communities, past and present, who create abundance out of scarcity.”
💡For example, traditional water engineering systems such as qanats are featured. Originating from Iran, this irrigation technology completely transformed water access and influenced countries around the world as a result. Are there any water engineering examples that have inspired you?
🌱Bloom Where You’re Planted
➡️It’s okay to feel confused by conflicting information or even misinformation – but don’t let the conversation style stop you from supporting change. Find reliable, digestible sources that can help you better understand what’s happening and share in ways that are sustainable for you.
💬Social media is one of many tools for change but it’s important to remember that not everyone feels comfortable posting online. This may because of personal risks, mental health or having a sensitive job role. Here are some other things that could be done instead:
– 📝Write to your local Councillors or MPs.
– 📲You can ‘save’ content so that it still gains traction.
– 📣Offline, identify an established platform that you could consistently support.
– 🕯️Direct positive energy through creativity or prayer.
– 🧩Check-on others and seek help if you are struggling.
💭Meaningful action requires persistence that can be realistically sustained. Is there anything you have found particularly helpful?
🌱Bloom Where You’re Planted
➡️It’s okay to feel confused by conflicting information or even misinformation – but don’t let the conversation style stop you from supporting change. Find reliable, digestible sources that can help you better understand what’s happening and share in ways that are sustainable for you.
💬Social media is one of many tools for change but it’s important to remember that not everyone feels comfortable posting online. This may because of personal risks, mental health or having a sensitive job role. Here are some other things that could be done instead:
– 📝Write to your local Councillors or MPs.
– 📲You can ‘save’ content so that it still gains traction.
– 📣Offline, identify an established platform that you could consistently support.
– 🕯️Direct positive energy through creativity or prayer.
– 🧩Check-on others and seek help if you are struggling.
💭Meaningful action requires persistence that can be realistically sustained. Is there anything you have found particularly helpful?
🎉Happy New Year!
🗓️It’s been a busy two years for @urbanistonamission so I thought I’d share a snapshot of 2024-2025…
– 🏗️55 planning applications were submitted with a 91% approval rate. Planning projects were sited across 32 different local authorities in England.
– 🎤23 events came to life. UOAM participated as a speaker for the majority, with most sessions covering planning & sustainability and the most common core audience being landlords & developers. Other events included built environment professionals, political leaders and members of the public; unpacking topics such as retrofit & energy, inclusive planning, leadership and climate action.
– 📸234 posts were made on Instagram, with 155k+ views across reels. Nature, property & planning and heritage were the three top themes shared. A big shout out to the businesses, council officers, local volunteers, educators, landlords, built environment professionals and many more who featured to showcase the work they’re doing to champion sustainable development!
🙏🏽An enormous thank you for all the support over the past two years. I hope you’ve enjoyed being a part of the journey and learned a little something about town planning along the way! What do you hope to see from planners in 2026?
🎉Happy New Year!
🗓️It’s been a busy two years for @urbanistonamission so I thought I’d share a snapshot of 2024-2025…
– 🏗️55 planning applications were submitted with a 91% approval rate. Planning projects were sited across 32 different local authorities in England.
– 🎤23 events came to life. UOAM participated as a speaker for the majority, with most sessions covering planning & sustainability and the most common core audience being landlords & developers. Other events included built environment professionals, political leaders and members of the public; unpacking topics such as retrofit & energy, inclusive planning, leadership and climate action.
– 📸234 posts were made on Instagram, with 155k+ views across reels. Nature, property & planning and heritage were the three top themes shared. A big shout out to the businesses, council officers, local volunteers, educators, landlords, built environment professionals and many more who featured to showcase the work they’re doing to champion sustainable development!
🙏🏽An enormous thank you for all the support over the past two years. I hope you’ve enjoyed being a part of the journey and learned a little something about town planning along the way! What do you hope to see from planners in 2026?
🗺️City Scavenger Hunts!
🤳🏽World City Trail offers a creative way to get to know a city by using challenges that guide you between landmarks.
🌃Gamifying our environment like this invites us to notice details and reflect on place in a fun and interactive way. This time of year, when bad weather and darkness can deter us from getting outside, having options like this can be especially valuable.
🧩Beyond puzzle solving and getting your step count up (I did over 20k this day!), activities like this highlight what could be possible for urban engagement and driving change. From seasonal trails to neighbourhood missions, there’s many ways we could be inspired to bond with our cities more.
💭How could public and private groups use tools like this to encourage local action?
🗺️City Scavenger Hunts!
🤳🏽World City Trail offers a creative way to get to know a city by using challenges that guide you between landmarks.
🌃Gamifying our environment like this invites us to notice details and reflect on place in a fun and interactive way. This time of year, when bad weather and darkness can deter us from getting outside, having options like this can be especially valuable.
🧩Beyond puzzle solving and getting your step count up (I did over 20k this day!), activities like this highlight what could be possible for urban engagement and driving change. From seasonal trails to neighbourhood missions, there’s many ways we could be inspired to bond with our cities more.
💭How could public and private groups use tools like this to encourage local action?
🏠Maison Tavel!
⏳Maison Tavel is considered ‘the oldest private residence in Geneva’, and is also a museum showcasing the city’s urban development.
🗺️From artefacts, paintings maps and more, this unique space tells the story of how people and place have evolved in Geneva throughout the years. You can learn about how land, infrastructure and buildings have adapted across centuries through their detailed video, the impressive city model from the 1800s, or the many other resources peppered throughout the different floors.
💡This means that beyond the site itself being of historic significance in Geneva’s Old Town, it continues to add value through knowledge sharing. Reflecting on how humans lived before us is critical for building urban resilience today, helping us understand why certain choices were made and what challenges were overcome.
💭Does your city have a museum that covers urban development?
🏠Maison Tavel!
⏳Maison Tavel is considered ‘the oldest private residence in Geneva’, and is also a museum showcasing the city’s urban development.
🗺️From artefacts, paintings maps and more, this unique space tells the story of how people and place have evolved in Geneva throughout the years. You can learn about how land, infrastructure and buildings have adapted across centuries through their detailed video, the impressive city model from the 1800s, or the many other resources peppered throughout the different floors.
💡This means that beyond the site itself being of historic significance in Geneva’s Old Town, it continues to add value through knowledge sharing. Reflecting on how humans lived before us is critical for building urban resilience today, helping us understand why certain choices were made and what challenges were overcome.
💭Does your city have a museum that covers urban development?
🎬Festival International du Film sur les Glaciers!
📍A series of documentaries and short films were presented in Geneva this month to raise awareness about the effects of climate change.
📽️The final day of the film festival included works from the incredibly talented @bernard.garo and @marcdecosterd at @blackshroud_arts; Dr. Nathalie Dietschy; Constance and Lesly Cousin from @doobleimpact and @clairobscur.asso.rennes; Dominique Margot, Cornella Seitier and @brighof. We also heard from René Longet, expert in sustainable development, who shared:
🏔️“Glaciers are both witnesses to and among the most emblematic victims of climate change. The melting of the world’s ice, including permafrost, is accelerating everywhere, at both high and high altitudes, rendering entire regions of our planet uninhabitable… This Festival invites us all, each in our own way, to care for our shared homeland, the Earth, and to commit to preserving its beauty and diversity.”
💡How could you use the power of storytelling to inspire climate action?
🎬Festival International du Film sur les Glaciers!
📍A series of documentaries and short films were presented in Geneva this month to raise awareness about the effects of climate change.
📽️The final day of the film festival included works from the incredibly talented @bernard.garo and @marcdecosterd at @blackshroud_arts; Dr. Nathalie Dietschy; Constance and Lesly Cousin from @doobleimpact and @clairobscur.asso.rennes; Dominique Margot, Cornella Seitier and @brighof. We also heard from René Longet, expert in sustainable development, who shared:
🏔️“Glaciers are both witnesses to and among the most emblematic victims of climate change. The melting of the world’s ice, including permafrost, is accelerating everywhere, at both high and high altitudes, rendering entire regions of our planet uninhabitable… This Festival invites us all, each in our own way, to care for our shared homeland, the Earth, and to commit to preserving its beauty and diversity.”
💡How could you use the power of storytelling to inspire climate action?
🌊Le Lac Léman!
📍The passionate team at @asl_leman did a fantastic job of explaining the threats facing le lac Léman, also known as Lake Geneva.
📊Despite the serious concerns associated with plastic, chemical waste, eutrophication, invasive species and more, the group still take a positive and proactive approach. We discussed the power of data collecting, changes in policy, local campaigning and coordinated clean-ups like Net’Léman.
💡So much can be learned from this exhibition, ‘Léman, l’éveil d’un peuple’, which “retraces the decisive action of associations, scientists, fishermen, journalists and institutions that helped turn the tide. At a time when new threats are hanging over the lake, the exhibition is also a reminder that every individual can, in turn, become an agent of change.”
💭What are the biggest issues impacting nature and water systems near you? What needs to be done to address them?
🌊Le Lac Léman!
📍The passionate team at @asl_leman did a fantastic job of explaining the threats facing le lac Léman, also known as Lake Geneva.
📊Despite the serious concerns associated with plastic, chemical waste, eutrophication, invasive species and more, the group still take a positive and proactive approach. We discussed the power of data collecting, changes in policy, local campaigning and coordinated clean-ups like Net’Léman.
💡So much can be learned from this exhibition, ‘Léman, l’éveil d’un peuple’, which “retraces the decisive action of associations, scientists, fishermen, journalists and institutions that helped turn the tide. At a time when new threats are hanging over the lake, the exhibition is also a reminder that every individual can, in turn, become an agent of change.”
💭What are the biggest issues impacting nature and water systems near you? What needs to be done to address them?
📣London Vice Chair!
🎤I’m excited to announce that I will be acting as Vice Chair for @rtpiplanners London across 2026!
🏗️Working with the fantastic new Chair Alex Johnson and London Regional Manager Emily Russell, we’re here to champion planning locally, help deliver strategic objectives and support planners in London. This includes a packed CPD programme, social networking events and much more.
🧩Seeing as today is International Volunteer Day, I would like to share some words of encouragement from RTPI President, Helen Fadipe: “Together, through your efforts and those of volunteers across the RTPI, we are shaping a profession that supports inclusive, resilient, and sustainable places and that is something to celebrate.”
💭What local volunteer opportunities could be out there for you?
📣London Vice Chair!
🎤I’m excited to announce that I will be acting as Vice Chair for @rtpiplanners London across 2026!
🏗️Working with the fantastic new Chair Alex Johnson and London Regional Manager Emily Russell, we’re here to champion planning locally, help deliver strategic objectives and support planners in London. This includes a packed CPD programme, social networking events and much more.
🧩Seeing as today is International Volunteer Day, I would like to share some words of encouragement from RTPI President, Helen Fadipe: “Together, through your efforts and those of volunteers across the RTPI, we are shaping a profession that supports inclusive, resilient, and sustainable places and that is something to celebrate.”
💭What local volunteer opportunities could be out there for you?
📍National Emergency Briefing
➡️Last week I attended the UK’s first National Emergency Briefing on the Climate & Nature crisis in Westminster.
📈A series of honest, science-based and comprehensive presentations concluded a crystal clear message: we are not safe and must act now. Specifically, an open letter was read to Keir Starmer, all public service broadcasters, and Ofcom calling for a televised emergency briefing to the public. The goal is to provide people with accurate information so that we can prepare, adapt and make decisions based on the realities of the world we face.
🎤Ten of the UK’s leading experts briefed an invite-only audience of politicians and leaders from business, culture, faith, sport and the media with the latest implications for health, food, national security and the economy. This included about 150 Parliamentarians and questions from influential figures like @greenpartyzack and @deborahmeaden.
🧩The briefing was designed to finally create a societal tipping point towards genuine emergency action. With more to come from @nebriefing and the open letter we can all sign by going to the NE page, how else could we help support the movement?
📍National Emergency Briefing
➡️Last week I attended the UK’s first National Emergency Briefing on the Climate & Nature crisis in Westminster.
📈A series of honest, science-based and comprehensive presentations concluded a crystal clear message: we are not safe and must act now. Specifically, an open letter was read to Keir Starmer, all public service broadcasters, and Ofcom calling for a televised emergency briefing to the public. The goal is to provide people with accurate information so that we can prepare, adapt and make decisions based on the realities of the world we face.
🎤Ten of the UK’s leading experts briefed an invite-only audience of politicians and leaders from business, culture, faith, sport and the media with the latest implications for health, food, national security and the economy. This included about 150 Parliamentarians and questions from influential figures like @greenpartyzack and @deborahmeaden.
🧩The briefing was designed to finally create a societal tipping point towards genuine emergency action. With more to come from @nebriefing and the open letter we can all sign by going to the NE page, how else could we help support the movement?
🎙️The PlannerPod!
💬Thank you again to the PlannerPod for inviting me to speak on all things planning and social media earlier this month.
🧩A special shoutout to Simon Wicks, editor of @theplanner_rtpi , who has made an active effort to reach out to me and learn more about my work over the past year. Simon has a genuine interest in how planning can be more engaging to non-planners and beyond, working hard behind the scenes to support those making it happen.
🏘️The episode reflects the spirit of the current @rtpiplanners campaign ‘It takes planners & you’. This is “a campaign that invites the public to see planners not as obstacles but as allies in shaping great places to live work and connect. It opens people’s eyes to the role planners play in everyday life from parks and footpaths to housing, transport and public spaces right outside their homes.”
💭Whether you’re a planner or not, what is your relationship with the world of town planning?
💡Checkout the wonderful @theurbanplan_her for more planning content!
🎙️The PlannerPod!
💬Thank you again to the PlannerPod for inviting me to speak on all things planning and social media earlier this month.
🧩A special shoutout to Simon Wicks, editor of @theplanner_rtpi , who has made an active effort to reach out to me and learn more about my work over the past year. Simon has a genuine interest in how planning can be more engaging to non-planners and beyond, working hard behind the scenes to support those making it happen.
🏘️The episode reflects the spirit of the current @rtpiplanners campaign ‘It takes planners & you’. This is “a campaign that invites the public to see planners not as obstacles but as allies in shaping great places to live work and connect. It opens people’s eyes to the role planners play in everyday life from parks and footpaths to housing, transport and public spaces right outside their homes.”
💭Whether you’re a planner or not, what is your relationship with the world of town planning?
💡Checkout the wonderful @theurbanplan_her for more planning content!
🎤London Build!
💡Last week I had the honour of being invited to speak for “Leaders of Tomorrow” with @letsbuild__ and @londonbuildexpo.
🧩Chaired by the experienced and highly engaging @annettefisherarchitect, the conversation covered a range of topics about what it means to lead. I was joined by Antonia Blege at @prparchitects, Elizabeth Akamo at @scottbrownriggltd and Fela Aromolaran at the @berkshealthnhs.
🏗️For me, it was important to talk about the harm that poor leadership can cause. From inconsistent messaging on sector priorities, uncertainty about future legislative and regulatory direction/timing, a lack of interdisciplinary collaboration and proportionate funding… cracks can be detrimental to industry morale when not addressed.
💭How are you leading in your industry?
🎤London Build!
💡Last week I had the honour of being invited to speak for “Leaders of Tomorrow” with @letsbuild__ and @londonbuildexpo.
🧩Chaired by the experienced and highly engaging @annettefisherarchitect, the conversation covered a range of topics about what it means to lead. I was joined by Antonia Blege at @prparchitects, Elizabeth Akamo at @scottbrownriggltd and Fela Aromolaran at the @berkshealthnhs.
🏗️For me, it was important to talk about the harm that poor leadership can cause. From inconsistent messaging on sector priorities, uncertainty about future legislative and regulatory direction/timing, a lack of interdisciplinary collaboration and proportionate funding… cracks can be detrimental to industry morale when not addressed.
💭How are you leading in your industry?
🛶Gongoozling!
👀Last week the wonderful @carlysimo led a gongoozling tour for her birthday. This is defined in the Cambridge dictionary as “the activity of watching boats and activities on canals (= long, narrow, artificially made stretches of water), for pleasure”.
🏙️Whether you’re gongoozling, train-spotting, people-watching or just taking in your surroundings, observing how things unfold in public spaces can offer moments of play or learning amidst otherwise chaotic cities. More than supporting our mental health, this allows us to reflect on historic urban development.
📍Town planning plays a crucial role in facilitating this experience, both directly and indirectly. From pathways, benches, toilets and more, the safety, accessibility, conservation and beauty of our cities will ultimately determine how likely we are to venture out.
💭Are you a gongoozler?
🛶Gongoozling!
👀Last week the wonderful @carlysimo led a gongoozling tour for her birthday. This is defined in the Cambridge dictionary as “the activity of watching boats and activities on canals (= long, narrow, artificially made stretches of water), for pleasure”.
🏙️Whether you’re gongoozling, train-spotting, people-watching or just taking in your surroundings, observing how things unfold in public spaces can offer moments of play or learning amidst otherwise chaotic cities. More than supporting our mental health, this allows us to reflect on historic urban development.
📍Town planning plays a crucial role in facilitating this experience, both directly and indirectly. From pathways, benches, toilets and more, the safety, accessibility, conservation and beauty of our cities will ultimately determine how likely we are to venture out.
💭Are you a gongoozler?
🎤London Build!
📍I’m looking forward to speaking at London Build 2025 as a panellist for “Leaders of Tomorrow with Let’s Build” tomorrow at @olympialondon!
🏗️This is the UK’s largest construction show with 38,000+ registered attendees from contractors, architects, civil engineers, developers, local councils, house builders/associations and construction professionals.
🧩It’s not every day that people from all across the built sector come together in one place like this. The diversity of participants will hopefully translate into new ideas and problem solving, which couldn’t be more pertinent given the challenges facing urban development today. It’s great to be invited to present this year – platforms like this really are crucial for learning, networking and taking time to reflect.
💭Are you coming to @londonbuildexpo?
🎤London Build!
📍I’m looking forward to speaking at London Build 2025 as a panellist for “Leaders of Tomorrow with Let’s Build” tomorrow at @olympialondon!
🏗️This is the UK’s largest construction show with 38,000+ registered attendees from contractors, architects, civil engineers, developers, local councils, house builders/associations and construction professionals.
🧩It’s not every day that people from all across the built sector come together in one place like this. The diversity of participants will hopefully translate into new ideas and problem solving, which couldn’t be more pertinent given the challenges facing urban development today. It’s great to be invited to present this year – platforms like this really are crucial for learning, networking and taking time to reflect.
💭Are you coming to @londonbuildexpo?
🎤AECOM x RTPI
🌟Thank you to everyone who joined us to ‘Celebrate Black Leadership Across the Built Environment’ last week. This collaboration event between the RTPI and AECOM was a clear reflection of 2025’s Black History Month theme: standing firm in power and pride.
🏗️Thank you to Karen Daye and Gabrielle Appiah for opening and setting the tone perfectly for the evening. Our exceptional panel included @rtpiplanners president Helen Fadipe, immediate @riba past president Muyiwa Oki and @ciht.uk Trustee Jimoh Ibrahim; also chaired by Georgia Thompson, Fellow of @ice_engineers .
💡As if having such a broad spread of expertise across the built environment wasn’t inspiring enough, our speakers also weren’t afraid to share their personal experiences. Encouraging future leaders with their contagious dedication and passion for the sector, I know I wasn’t alone in feeling an immense sense of pride.
💭What would have been your top question for the panel?
🎤AECOM x RTPI
🌟Thank you to everyone who joined us to ‘Celebrate Black Leadership Across the Built Environment’ last week. This collaboration event between the RTPI and AECOM was a clear reflection of 2025’s Black History Month theme: standing firm in power and pride.
🏗️Thank you to Karen Daye and Gabrielle Appiah for opening and setting the tone perfectly for the evening. Our exceptional panel included @rtpiplanners president Helen Fadipe, immediate @riba past president Muyiwa Oki and @ciht.uk Trustee Jimoh Ibrahim; also chaired by Georgia Thompson, Fellow of @ice_engineers .
💡As if having such a broad spread of expertise across the built environment wasn’t inspiring enough, our speakers also weren’t afraid to share their personal experiences. Encouraging future leaders with their contagious dedication and passion for the sector, I know I wasn’t alone in feeling an immense sense of pride.
💭What would have been your top question for the panel?
✍🏽Retrofitworks Feature!
📲Thank you to the @retrofitworks team for featuring my article ‘Planning, Meet My Friend Retrofit’ in the first edition of their exclusive Silver Members’ Magazine.
💡The article explores the relationship between planning and retrofit, flagging the need for greater collaboration and shared learning across the industry. I signpost the report entitled ‘Retrofit First Not Retrofit Only: Future-proofing national policy to support sustainable development’, exploring this more in 2024 with The London Property Alliance and @savills. In reference to the NPPF the report includes:
📊“There is no guidance on how planners should assess or strike a balance between carbon emissions, other environmental benefits and social and economic impacts when determining if retrofit or redevelopment is most appropriate”, with 91% of respondents agreeing that the provision of nationally applied, standardised guidance on how to assess retrofit and redevelopment design options would be beneficial for the development and planning sector.
➡️It’s great to hear that the magazine has been officially awarded 2 CPD accreditation credits as a recognition of the quality and impact of the content shared within. What could planners learn from the Retrofitworks network?
✍🏽Retrofitworks Feature!
📲Thank you to the @retrofitworks team for featuring my article ‘Planning, Meet My Friend Retrofit’ in the first edition of their exclusive Silver Members’ Magazine.
💡The article explores the relationship between planning and retrofit, flagging the need for greater collaboration and shared learning across the industry. I signpost the report entitled ‘Retrofit First Not Retrofit Only: Future-proofing national policy to support sustainable development’, exploring this more in 2024 with The London Property Alliance and @savills. In reference to the NPPF the report includes:
📊“There is no guidance on how planners should assess or strike a balance between carbon emissions, other environmental benefits and social and economic impacts when determining if retrofit or redevelopment is most appropriate”, with 91% of respondents agreeing that the provision of nationally applied, standardised guidance on how to assess retrofit and redevelopment design options would be beneficial for the development and planning sector.
➡️It’s great to hear that the magazine has been officially awarded 2 CPD accreditation credits as a recognition of the quality and impact of the content shared within. What could planners learn from the Retrofitworks network?
🎙️The PlannerPod!
🏗️This month Mahsa Ige from @urbanistonamission and Nouvella Kusi from @theurbanplan_her featured on The PlannerPod, @theplanner_rtpi magazine podcast, in celebration of World Planning Day!
🎤In support of the @rtpiplanners planning public awareness campaign, Mahsa shares some behind the scenes footage of the day. The importance of storytelling and sharing the value of planning was a unanimous take!
📲You can hear the full conversation on the podcast, where The Planner team chats with planners and social media content creators, Mahsa and Nouvella, about how the planning profession can use social media to talk about planning, urbanism and development with a wider audience.
💡Have you tuned into The PlannerPod yet?
🎙️The PlannerPod!
🏗️This month Mahsa Ige from @urbanistonamission and Nouvella Kusi from @theurbanplan_her featured on The PlannerPod, @theplanner_rtpi magazine podcast, in celebration of World Planning Day!
🎤In support of the @rtpiplanners planning public awareness campaign, Mahsa shares some behind the scenes footage of the day. The importance of storytelling and sharing the value of planning was a unanimous take!
📲You can hear the full conversation on the podcast, where The Planner team chats with planners and social media content creators, Mahsa and Nouvella, about how the planning profession can use social media to talk about planning, urbanism and development with a wider audience.
💡Have you tuned into The PlannerPod yet?
📣Retrofit Zone Launch!
🎤Thank you to the NSBRC for inviting me to the launch of this exciting new Retrofit Zone, officially opened by MP Sarah Gibson today.
🏘️It was great to meet Sarah and hear her views about the importance of retrofit resources and incentives. Recognising the challenges and potential associated with our existing housing stock, it’s clear that the spotlight can’t just be on new development.
💡Wiltshire Councillor, Helen Belcher OBE, reiterated this with an emphasis on the interconnected benefits of retrofitting. More than just a matter of bricks and mortar, ensuring that our homes are energy efficient is critical for economic, social and environmental sustainability.
💭How could learning from the new Retrofit Zone help us all future-proof the buildings standing today?
📣Retrofit Zone Launch!
🎤Thank you to the NSBRC for inviting me to the launch of this exciting new Retrofit Zone, officially opened by MP Sarah Gibson today.
🏘️It was great to meet Sarah and hear her views about the importance of retrofit resources and incentives. Recognising the challenges and potential associated with our existing housing stock, it’s clear that the spotlight can’t just be on new development.
💡Wiltshire Councillor, Helen Belcher OBE, reiterated this with an emphasis on the interconnected benefits of retrofitting. More than just a matter of bricks and mortar, ensuring that our homes are energy efficient is critical for economic, social and environmental sustainability.
💭How could learning from the new Retrofit Zone help us all future-proof the buildings standing today?
🎤Celebrating Black Leadership in the Built Environment!
📍Join us in-person next week on Friday 14th of November to mark a moment in time celebrating Black leadership across the institutes shaping our built environment.
🏗️This event honours the contributions of Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) President @helenfadipe.mrtpi and Royal Institute of British Architects (@riba) immediate past President @muyiwa.oki.
💬The evening will open with a fireside chat so that we can learn more about our presidents, reflecting on their journeys and ambitions for the future of the industry. The panel will be followed by an opportunity to network and carry on the discussion with drinks and nibbles.
🎟️Have you booked your free ticket yet from the @rtpiplanners website?
🎤Celebrating Black Leadership in the Built Environment!
📍Join us in-person next week on Friday 14th of November to mark a moment in time celebrating Black leadership across the institutes shaping our built environment.
🏗️This event honours the contributions of Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) President @helenfadipe.mrtpi and Royal Institute of British Architects (@riba) immediate past President @muyiwa.oki.
💬The evening will open with a fireside chat so that we can learn more about our presidents, reflecting on their journeys and ambitions for the future of the industry. The panel will be followed by an opportunity to network and carry on the discussion with drinks and nibbles.
🎟️Have you booked your free ticket yet from the @rtpiplanners website?
📍North Kensington Walking Tour!
🍁Last month the brilliant Joanna from @iya_london_walks led a walking tour of North Kensington for us at @rtpiplanners.
🏙️Celebrating Black History month, each stop spotlighted the residents who have shaped this area over the years. From buildings like Trellick Tower to infrastructure like The Westway, the intersection between politics, planning and place couldn’t be more clear.
🎟️Our attendees included everyone from council officers and private sector planners, to students and recent graduates. We were joined by those who regularly attend RTPI events right through to those who came to the walk for their first one! For anyone influencing the future of our built environments, it’s so important to learn from the communities that have already been fighting for change.
💭What local activities could help you reflect on the history of our neighbourhoods?
📍North Kensington Walking Tour!
🍁Last month the brilliant Joanna from @iya_london_walks led a walking tour of North Kensington for us at @rtpiplanners.
🏙️Celebrating Black History month, each stop spotlighted the residents who have shaped this area over the years. From buildings like Trellick Tower to infrastructure like The Westway, the intersection between politics, planning and place couldn’t be more clear.
🎟️Our attendees included everyone from council officers and private sector planners, to students and recent graduates. We were joined by those who regularly attend RTPI events right through to those who came to the walk for their first one! For anyone influencing the future of our built environments, it’s so important to learn from the communities that have already been fighting for change.
💭What local activities could help you reflect on the history of our neighbourhoods?
🌳42 Acres!
📍This unique place is on a mission to support connections between people and planet.
♻️More than just a retreat space, the group aims to “go beyond being sustainable into what we call regenerative. Being regenerative means being carbon negative and biodiversity positive. Put simply, we aim to leave the earth in better shape than when we found it–not only for us but for generations to come.” Some of the many ways this goes on at 42 Acres includes:
– 💡100% of heat and electricity is from renewable energy, with a solar farm also located on site.
– 🦉Supporting biodiversity with barn owls, otters, hares, kestrel and buzzards enjoying the retreat too; as well as the return of a number of once thought extinct species to this region, such as beavers, wild boar and pine martens.
– 🍎Ingredients for the food are sourced either from the site itself or locally. This includes edible hedges, which also act as wildlife corridors across the land.
💭A big thank you to the amazing @roriyoga and @nerissaxaveria.yoga for hosting such a magical retreat! What nature-based activities could help support both your wellbeing and regenerative projects like this?
🌳42 Acres!
📍This unique place is on a mission to support connections between people and planet.
♻️More than just a retreat space, the group aims to “go beyond being sustainable into what we call regenerative. Being regenerative means being carbon negative and biodiversity positive. Put simply, we aim to leave the earth in better shape than when we found it–not only for us but for generations to come.” Some of the many ways this goes on at 42 Acres includes:
– 💡100% of heat and electricity is from renewable energy, with a solar farm also located on site.
– 🦉Supporting biodiversity with barn owls, otters, hares, kestrel and buzzards enjoying the retreat too; as well as the return of a number of once thought extinct species to this region, such as beavers, wild boar and pine martens.
– 🍎Ingredients for the food are sourced either from the site itself or locally. This includes edible hedges, which also act as wildlife corridors across the land.
💭A big thank you to the amazing @roriyoga and @nerissaxaveria.yoga for hosting such a magical retreat! What nature-based activities could help support both your wellbeing and regenerative projects like this?
📍60 years of Southwark!
🎤Join us behind the scenes before the launch of the Southwark 60 exhibition, celebrating the 60th anniversary of Southwark Council.
➡️Mahsa from @urbanistonamission spoke to Antonia Grant from @grant_heritageprojs and @southwarkcouncil Heritage Officer, Jeevan Kaur Sanghera, all about the project during set-up. With input from partners like @migrationmuseumuk @theafricacentre @theatrepeckam @ldnlgbtqcentre, this exhibition is all about spotlighting the people that have shaped Southwark over the years.
🗓️The official launch is today at the Southwark Heritage Centre and Walworth Library. No tickets are required, so come by before Spring 2026 to check out the exhibition and learn more about the events programme!
📍60 years of Southwark!
🎤Join us behind the scenes before the launch of the Southwark 60 exhibition, celebrating the 60th anniversary of Southwark Council.
➡️Mahsa from @urbanistonamission spoke to Antonia Grant from @grant_heritageprojs and @southwarkcouncil Heritage Officer, Jeevan Kaur Sanghera, all about the project during set-up. With input from partners like @migrationmuseumuk @theafricacentre @theatrepeckam @ldnlgbtqcentre, this exhibition is all about spotlighting the people that have shaped Southwark over the years.
🗓️The official launch is today at the Southwark Heritage Centre and Walworth Library. No tickets are required, so come by before Spring 2026 to check out the exhibition and learn more about the events programme!
🏘️North Kensington Walking Tour!
🎟️ For those in my network in London – join us for a special Black History Month walking tour of North Kensington on 16 October with @iya_london_walks and the Royal Town Planning Institute!
➡️ Limited tickets available to book from £5 on the @rtpiplanners website, with the tour followed by drinks and nibbles.
🏗️ Explore how history, policy, and urban planning have shaped this area from architectural landmarks to the lived experiences of Black residents across generations. It’s a chance to understand the past while reflecting on how planning decisions continue to influence the neighbourhoods we build today.
💡How much do you know about the history of the area?
🏘️North Kensington Walking Tour!
🎟️ For those in my network in London – join us for a special Black History Month walking tour of North Kensington on 16 October with @iya_london_walks and the Royal Town Planning Institute!
➡️ Limited tickets available to book from £5 on the @rtpiplanners website, with the tour followed by drinks and nibbles.
🏗️ Explore how history, policy, and urban planning have shaped this area from architectural landmarks to the lived experiences of Black residents across generations. It’s a chance to understand the past while reflecting on how planning decisions continue to influence the neighbourhoods we build today.
💡How much do you know about the history of the area?
🌊The River Thames!
🏝️Southend-on-Sea is one of England’s most well known seaside destinations. However, many people don’t know that the ‘sea’ here is actually part of The River Thames.
🏄🏽♀️Celebrated for the Adventure Island theme park, beaches, boat trips, water sports and more, it’s easy to assume that this coastal city fronts open sea. For those who didn’t know (like me!), it’s worth checking a map to better understand the relationship between The River Thames and this part of the country.
🐦Southend-on-Sea’s Foreshore is located at the mouth of the Thames Estuary, with the entire area protected for nature conservation. In fact, the Nature Reserve is designated as part of the Thames Estuary and Marshes Special Protection Area (SPA) due to its international importance for birdlife.
💭More than just a London landmark, did you know that The River Thames plays such an important role for biodiversity across England’s coastline?
🌊The River Thames!
🏝️Southend-on-Sea is one of England’s most well known seaside destinations. However, many people don’t know that the ‘sea’ here is actually part of The River Thames.
🏄🏽♀️Celebrated for the Adventure Island theme park, beaches, boat trips, water sports and more, it’s easy to assume that this coastal city fronts open sea. For those who didn’t know (like me!), it’s worth checking a map to better understand the relationship between The River Thames and this part of the country.
🐦Southend-on-Sea’s Foreshore is located at the mouth of the Thames Estuary, with the entire area protected for nature conservation. In fact, the Nature Reserve is designated as part of the Thames Estuary and Marshes Special Protection Area (SPA) due to its international importance for birdlife.
💭More than just a London landmark, did you know that The River Thames plays such an important role for biodiversity across England’s coastline?
📍The Old Waterworks!
🌊Located in Southend-on-Sea, @theoldwaterworks is an artist-led charity supporting local creatives, also home to the Grrrl Zine Library.
🎨From workshops, screenings, educational sessions and events like the recent @grrrlzinefair, this space offers a valuable community service. Buildings that provide access to facilities, studios and research are fundamental for cultural sustainability.
🎭Creating and engaging with art can be infinitely beneficial for mental health, particularly at times of frustration or uncertainty. Having these physical spaces to go to can allow for productive escapes; as well as a platform for like-minded people to meet, share and learn together in adulthood.
💡How are your local planning policies protecting and promoting community hubs like this?
📍The Old Waterworks!
🌊Located in Southend-on-Sea, @theoldwaterworks is an artist-led charity supporting local creatives, also home to the Grrrl Zine Library.
🎨From workshops, screenings, educational sessions and events like the recent @grrrlzinefair, this space offers a valuable community service. Buildings that provide access to facilities, studios and research are fundamental for cultural sustainability.
🎭Creating and engaging with art can be infinitely beneficial for mental health, particularly at times of frustration or uncertainty. Having these physical spaces to go to can allow for productive escapes; as well as a platform for like-minded people to meet, share and learn together in adulthood.
💡How are your local planning policies protecting and promoting community hubs like this?
🐻Bear Watching!
📍Despite almost reaching extinction in Slovakia 100 years ago, conservation efforts have led to more stable populations of the Eurasian brown bear in this region.
🏞️In a world that is increasingly dominated by human activity and urban development, nurturing knowledge and an authentic respect for wildlife is essential for its preservation. Responsible wilderness tourism can offer a way to enjoy animals under strict conditions, e.g.: 1) sightings aren’t guaranteed, 2) interacting with or disturbing the animals is an absolute no, and 3) a guide is required, ensuring safety and that the experience is secondary to animal welfare.
📑Passionate environmentalists like our guide do a huge amount of work to protect biodiversity and animal rights. This includes influencing conservation policies, particularly poignant for brown bears in Slovakia currently.
💭How can we better understand the risks and benefits associated with wildlife conservation so that proportionate governing decisions can be made?
🐻Bear Watching!
📍Despite almost reaching extinction in Slovakia 100 years ago, conservation efforts have led to more stable populations of the Eurasian brown bear in this region.
🏞️In a world that is increasingly dominated by human activity and urban development, nurturing knowledge and an authentic respect for wildlife is essential for its preservation. Responsible wilderness tourism can offer a way to enjoy animals under strict conditions, e.g.: 1) sightings aren’t guaranteed, 2) interacting with or disturbing the animals is an absolute no, and 3) a guide is required, ensuring safety and that the experience is secondary to animal welfare.
📑Passionate environmentalists like our guide do a huge amount of work to protect biodiversity and animal rights. This includes influencing conservation policies, particularly poignant for brown bears in Slovakia currently.
💭How can we better understand the risks and benefits associated with wildlife conservation so that proportionate governing decisions can be made?
📍Prague’s Skyline!
🌇The Cambridge Dictionary defines a skyline as “a shape or pattern made against the sky, especially by buildings”.
🏗️A city’s skyline showcases a unique moment in time, reducing dynamic and ever-evolving urban environments into one simplified picture. Urban planning policies underpin how this is shaped over time, which could mean remaining identical, radically transforming or something in between.
📑It’s all in what you notice about building heights and materials, historic sites, urban density, green and blue spaces, transport infrastructure and signs of construction – planning priorities really do reveal themselves between us and the sky. It can be easy to forget how planning decisions, big and small, all add up to create the world we see around us.
💭What does your city’s skyline tell you about local planning priorities?
📍Prague’s Skyline!
🌇The Cambridge Dictionary defines a skyline as “a shape or pattern made against the sky, especially by buildings”.
🏗️A city’s skyline showcases a unique moment in time, reducing dynamic and ever-evolving urban environments into one simplified picture. Urban planning policies underpin how this is shaped over time, which could mean remaining identical, radically transforming or something in between.
📑It’s all in what you notice about building heights and materials, historic sites, urban density, green and blue spaces, transport infrastructure and signs of construction – planning priorities really do reveal themselves between us and the sky. It can be easy to forget how planning decisions, big and small, all add up to create the world we see around us.
💭What does your city’s skyline tell you about local planning priorities?
🎤Young Planners’ Conference!
🎟️Thank you to everyone who attended and helped organise this year’s Young Planners’ Conference all about ‘Planning for Good Health’.
🏙️I absolutely loved being a panellist alongside Pooran Desai from @oneplanet.life and Louise Edgington from @climatedpsych exploring ‘Sustainable Places: Sustainable Selves’. We brought our different perspectives to the table, spotlighting planning as the frontline in health provision. A big thanks to Amy Ingle for chairing, @rtpiplanners and @lsbu for hosting!
🧩Recognising how much our homes, opportunities and environments go on to shape our mental and physical health underpinned the entire conversation. Pooran also launched ‘systems connecter’ training with @oneplanet.life, on a mission to equip planners with the skills for joined up solutions and interconnected policies – more on their website!
💭How is good health integrated into your plan-making and decision-taking?
🎤Young Planners’ Conference!
🎟️Thank you to everyone who attended and helped organise this year’s Young Planners’ Conference all about ‘Planning for Good Health’.
🏙️I absolutely loved being a panellist alongside Pooran Desai from @oneplanet.life and Louise Edgington from @climatedpsych exploring ‘Sustainable Places: Sustainable Selves’. We brought our different perspectives to the table, spotlighting planning as the frontline in health provision. A big thanks to Amy Ingle for chairing, @rtpiplanners and @lsbu for hosting!
🧩Recognising how much our homes, opportunities and environments go on to shape our mental and physical health underpinned the entire conversation. Pooran also launched ‘systems connecter’ training with @oneplanet.life, on a mission to equip planners with the skills for joined up solutions and interconnected policies – more on their website!
💭How is good health integrated into your plan-making and decision-taking?
🌃The Shard of Glass!
📑In the original planning applications this building was referred to as the ‘London Bridge Tower’. It became known as ‘The Shard of Glass’ because of its “architectural design and predominant facing material”.
🏗️The planning appeal report APP/A5840/V/02/1095887 assessed the treatment, noting: “The façade of the building is broken down into nine separate shards of glass. These add articulation, interest and, paradoxically, balance to the spire. It is difficult to do justice to the drama of their effect in words alone. The shards break down the building into separate legible elements. Each shard is narrower than the building as a whole, stressing the verticality of form and elegance.”
💡Having access to historic planning decisions isn’t just for planners. Reviewing these documents can help all of us better understand the reasoning behind what’s around us today, as well as how it was viewed by people of that time.
💭Whether it’s iconic developments like the shard, or something smaller scale locally, would you know how to check the planning history?
🌃The Shard of Glass!
📑In the original planning applications this building was referred to as the ‘London Bridge Tower’. It became known as ‘The Shard of Glass’ because of its “architectural design and predominant facing material”.
🏗️The planning appeal report APP/A5840/V/02/1095887 assessed the treatment, noting: “The façade of the building is broken down into nine separate shards of glass. These add articulation, interest and, paradoxically, balance to the spire. It is difficult to do justice to the drama of their effect in words alone. The shards break down the building into separate legible elements. Each shard is narrower than the building as a whole, stressing the verticality of form and elegance.”
💡Having access to historic planning decisions isn’t just for planners. Reviewing these documents can help all of us better understand the reasoning behind what’s around us today, as well as how it was viewed by people of that time.
💭Whether it’s iconic developments like the shard, or something smaller scale locally, would you know how to check the planning history?
🎤RTPI Presidential Visit!
🏗️Last week we were joined by @rtpiplanners President, Helen Fadipe, for a tour of the Earl’s Court Development Site.
📍This event for the London RTPI committee was all about shared learning. Helen champions the importance of coming together for joined-up thinking across the profession and this was definitely a fun way to do it!
🏘️The @earlscourtdevco group gave us an in-depth breakdown of the project’s history, explaining how and why planning decisions were made. There was a specific emphasis around the importance of local engagement, being transparent and authentically responsive to the needs of the community.
🧩The ambition is to be ‘a global exemplar of sustainable development’. In the process of seeking planning permission, the project includes c. 4000 homes, workspace for 12,000 people, 4 new cultural venues and a 4.5 acre urban park built over the West London line.
💡Have you visited yet?
🎤RTPI Presidential Visit!
🏗️Last week we were joined by @rtpiplanners President, Helen Fadipe, for a tour of the Earl’s Court Development Site.
📍This event for the London RTPI committee was all about shared learning. Helen champions the importance of coming together for joined-up thinking across the profession and this was definitely a fun way to do it!
🏘️The @earlscourtdevco group gave us an in-depth breakdown of the project’s history, explaining how and why planning decisions were made. There was a specific emphasis around the importance of local engagement, being transparent and authentically responsive to the needs of the community.
🧩The ambition is to be ‘a global exemplar of sustainable development’. In the process of seeking planning permission, the project includes c. 4000 homes, workspace for 12,000 people, 4 new cultural venues and a 4.5 acre urban park built over the West London line.
💡Have you visited yet?
📍Sites of Special Scientific Interest!
📑Also known as ‘SSSI’, Sites of Special Scientific Interest are designated areas protected by law.
🗺️ @naturalengland considers these as “the finest sites for wildlife and natural features in England, supporting many characteristic, rare and endangered species, habitats and natural features.” You can find them all online using the Magic Maps website!
🌳Whippendell Wood is an example of this, located just outside of London near Cassiobury Park. According to the @woodlandtrust, it’s thought that this ancient woodland is over 400 years old. It’s designated as a SSSI due to “its variety of woodland habitats”. For example, @rspb notes “many woodland birds including woodpeckers, treecreepers and nuthatch, tits and finches, tawny owls, muntjac deer, foxes and badgers.”
💭Where is your nearest SSSI? How could you enjoy and help preserve what it has to offer?
📍Sites of Special Scientific Interest!
📑Also known as ‘SSSI’, Sites of Special Scientific Interest are designated areas protected by law.
🗺️ @naturalengland considers these as “the finest sites for wildlife and natural features in England, supporting many characteristic, rare and endangered species, habitats and natural features.” You can find them all online using the Magic Maps website!
🌳Whippendell Wood is an example of this, located just outside of London near Cassiobury Park. According to the @woodlandtrust, it’s thought that this ancient woodland is over 400 years old. It’s designated as a SSSI due to “its variety of woodland habitats”. For example, @rspb notes “many woodland birds including woodpeckers, treecreepers and nuthatch, tits and finches, tawny owls, muntjac deer, foxes and badgers.”
💭Where is your nearest SSSI? How could you enjoy and help preserve what it has to offer?
🏗️Planning for Good Health!
🎤I’m so excited to be invited as a panellist for the Young Planners conference this weekend on ‘Planning for Good Health’.
🏘️Joined by Pooran Desai from @oneplanet.life and Louise Edgington from @climatedpsych, we will specifically discuss the topic of ‘Sustainable Spaces, Sustainable Selves’, focusing on the intersections between placemaking, sustainability and mental health.
🧠The panel will explore ‘how town planning can foster psychological resilience by designing spaces that promote connection, calm and adaptability to support mental health at all stages of life. Experts will discuss strategies like green infrastructure, inclusive community design, and mental health-informed climate adaptation.’
🎟️We look forward to seeing you there and hearing your thoughts on planning for good health!
🏗️Planning for Good Health!
🎤I’m so excited to be invited as a panellist for the Young Planners conference this weekend on ‘Planning for Good Health’.
🏘️Joined by Pooran Desai from @oneplanet.life and Louise Edgington from @climatedpsych, we will specifically discuss the topic of ‘Sustainable Spaces, Sustainable Selves’, focusing on the intersections between placemaking, sustainability and mental health.
🧠The panel will explore ‘how town planning can foster psychological resilience by designing spaces that promote connection, calm and adaptability to support mental health at all stages of life. Experts will discuss strategies like green infrastructure, inclusive community design, and mental health-informed climate adaptation.’
🎟️We look forward to seeing you there and hearing your thoughts on planning for good health!
📍The Beauty of Tuscany!
🤩From medieval towns and cities to rolling hills and vineyards, both rural and urban landscapes are celebrated here. In Tuscany, ‘beautiful’ can take many different forms.
🌇In dense cities like the region’s capital, Florence, this can mean iconic landmarks and a distinct building palette. A perfect view can be about capturing the Duomo, historic bridges and the artistic spirit of the Renaissance. Smaller towns like Siena and San Gimignano share this romantic quality, tiny but mighty in their fairytale atmosphere.
🏞️In complete contrast, the region is also well known for green and gold as far as the eye can see. The Tuscan countryside manifests as real-life paintings, soft and picturesque in their quiet natural dominance.
💭As town planners manage rapid urban development, how can we ensure the distinct and diverse beauty found across landscapes is protected?
📍The Beauty of Tuscany!
🤩From medieval towns and cities to rolling hills and vineyards, both rural and urban landscapes are celebrated here. In Tuscany, ‘beautiful’ can take many different forms.
🌇In dense cities like the region’s capital, Florence, this can mean iconic landmarks and a distinct building palette. A perfect view can be about capturing the Duomo, historic bridges and the artistic spirit of the Renaissance. Smaller towns like Siena and San Gimignano share this romantic quality, tiny but mighty in their fairytale atmosphere.
🏞️In complete contrast, the region is also well known for green and gold as far as the eye can see. The Tuscan countryside manifests as real-life paintings, soft and picturesque in their quiet natural dominance.
💭As town planners manage rapid urban development, how can we ensure the distinct and diverse beauty found across landscapes is protected?
🏞️The Sentierelsa Trail!
🏊🏽♀️Meandering through this trail you can experience the Diborrato Waterfall, historic hydraulic systems and some wild swimming if you’re up for it!
🧩However, there is a delicate balance between natural beauty and sustainable tourism. In order to preserve the ecological integrity and picturesque nature that’s so good for us, raising visitor awareness about responsible human activity is key. Some examples include:
🥾Using clear trails and signage to discourage off-trail exploration, minimising wider natural degradation.
♻️Enforcing ‘take only pictures, leave only footprints’ principles to ensure waste isn’t left behind.
🐟Providing educational resources accessible to the public about local biodiversity and how to help preserve this.
💭What would be your top tip to help ensure places like this are protected for future visitors to enjoy?
🏞️The Sentierelsa Trail!
🏊🏽♀️Meandering through this trail you can experience the Diborrato Waterfall, historic hydraulic systems and some wild swimming if you’re up for it!
🧩However, there is a delicate balance between natural beauty and sustainable tourism. In order to preserve the ecological integrity and picturesque nature that’s so good for us, raising visitor awareness about responsible human activity is key. Some examples include:
🥾Using clear trails and signage to discourage off-trail exploration, minimising wider natural degradation.
♻️Enforcing ‘take only pictures, leave only footprints’ principles to ensure waste isn’t left behind.
🐟Providing educational resources accessible to the public about local biodiversity and how to help preserve this.
💭What would be your top tip to help ensure places like this are protected for future visitors to enjoy?