Jessica Hird, Partner Planner, tells AT what she believes architects could being doing to better support planners, her most significant red flag when dealing with designers, and why she’s promoting for the next generation of Town Planners.
What do you think differentiates a scheme that sails through planning from one that struggles?Schemes that development efficiently through planning are usually those that have been formed by policy, location and people from the beginning. The greatest applications demonstrate a clear understanding of national and local preparation policy, react sensitively to site constraints and opportunities, and are backed by meaningful early engagement with stakeholders, consultees and the regional community. On the other hand, schemes typically struggle when they appear extremely speculative, fail to
deal with material factors to consider, or prioritise ambition over deliverability. Typical concerns consist of bad contextual design, inadequate supporting info, limited infrastructure factor to consider, and ignoring political or neighborhood level of sensitivities. Ultimately, successful schemes feel like a logical extension of their environments rather than an imposition upon them. How do you think designers can better support planners in making a strong case for development?Architects play a critical
role in translating planning method into developed type. The most efficient architects work collaboratively with coordinators early, making sure design aspiration lines up with policy compliance, viability and stakeholder expectations. There always appears to be this bridge in between Planners and Architects completing however I always state ‘I can’t draw so why need to architects do the town planning’. I constantly look to work positively with designers as a planner’s case is reinforced when architects clearly validate style choices in regards to regional character, sustainability, ease of access and social value. What’s the one thing a designer might state or do that would make you NOT wish to deal with them?An absence of determination to collaborate is most likely the greatest warning. If an architect approaches planning as a barrier instead of a tactical procedure or dismisses policy and stakeholder concerns in favour of simply conceptual design. The very best results come from multidisciplinary respect. What keeps you awake at night?I sleep quite well however there are the periodic preparation headaches. What could you speak about for hours? If you asked me personally Greece and the Greek islands. Professionally, the story behind care homes which is a huge enthusiasm and expertise of mine. And what’s next for you?For me, it has to do with continuing to grow our preparation practice, STAT Planning in the East Midlands, and building on what
is still an exciting brand-new chapter for the business. Alongside that, I’m enthusiastic about increasing awareness of Town as a profession for the next generation. Planning plays such a vital function in forming communities, yet it’s often ignored as a profession path. Motivating more young people to comprehend and engage with the profession is something I view as exceptionally crucial for its future.