RTPI appoints head of public affairs and policy

Robbie Calvert MRTPI has been appointed by the RTPI as its news head of public affairs and policy.

He currently works as a planning policy officer at Scottish Borders Council.

Calvert has previously worked at the RTPI and RTPI Scotland, including as intern project officer, acting policy and practice officer, policy practice and research officer and policy and networks advisor. He has served in several voluntary capacities, including as a corporate member of the Board of Trustees and as a member of the Scottish Executive Committee.

Calvert has authored research for the institute on renewable energy, 20-minute neighbourhoods and chief planning officers.

Calvert said: “I am delighted to be appointed to the newly formed role as RTPI head of policy and public affairs, building on the rich and sustained work of Richard Blyth.

“I believe that an empowered and well-resourced planning system is fundamental to a successful society. This is an important moment for planning with a renewed political focus. We have to grasp this opportunity and champion our profession and the better future it can bring.

“The merging of policy and public affairs functions gives the institute a new steer in direction, one which I hope will strengthen the impact of the RTPI’s policy work. However for me, the fundamental purpose of ensuring that the carefully articulated views of our membership are reached by the people who need them, when they need them."

Simon Creer, communications director at the RTPI, said: “The RTPI has listened to the membership and their clear desire for the institute to be advocating and lobbying on their behalf. That is why the policy and public affairs functions have been brought into one team; making policy generation the engine for our engagement with governments across the UK.

“Robbie’s knowledge of the profession, the policy landscape across the UK and his experience delivering impact at a national level will be a strong addition to the RTPI’s arsenal. As the Labour government prioritise planning reform I am really pleased to have such a strong individual joining the team.”