Still undecided or interested to understand what to expect from the newly elected government? Join us as we interview three special guests on the parties’ manifestos – Steve Quartermain (former Chief Planner) on planning and housing policies, Duncan Field (Town Legal) on energy and environment policies, and John Walker (CT Group) on politics and planning. [NB: We recorded this episode in various different locations which, at times, has impacted sound quality.]

Join us as we look back at Patrick Robinson’s long and successful career ahead of his retirement. Patrick was one of Town Legal’s founding partners and the firms’ first Managing Partner. Starting his career before the advent of mobile phones and emails, Patrick has had a very impressive career, and we discuss some of his key highlights (and a few lowlights).

Town Legal LLP

Victoria and Nikita run through a planning themed "12 Days of Christmas" looking back at some highlights from 2023.

There’s lots for us to cover after an extended summer break – the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act receives royal assent, the government announces its long-term plan for housing, the introduction of mandatory BNG regulations get delayed and the SoS refuses the called-in M&S application. Victoria and Nikita also welcome their first fellow Townie as a special guest to shed some light on the nutrient neutrality issue!

Nick Grant, barrister at Landmark Chambers, features in our next Case Law Brief episode on the podcast.

The Court of Appeal (Lindblom LJ, Lewis LJ and Laing LJ) has upheld Holgate J’s decision to quash an Inspector’s grant of permission for 289 apartments on the Newcastle Quayside. Anjoli dives into the details for us in a brilliant listen.

Victoria and Nikita cover the recent Secretary of State’s decision in the called-in Berkeley Homes application in Cranbrook and a lot of recent/ongoing consultations, including on Environmental Outcomes Reports, Affordable Housing, Development Viability, a new Use Class/PD rights for short term lets and the Infrastructure Levy (with special guest Sasha Gordon, Director at Quod).

Landmark Chambers barrister, Leon Glenister, is our next guest on the podcast. He is here to talk about R (Ashchurch Rural Parish Council) v Tewkesbury Borough Council [2023]. Or rather, "the bridge to nowhere" case.