Britain Needs Planners

 

When launching the business, the nagging fear was that the work wouldn’t materialise. No worries there, it’s been a busy time with a diverse range of urban and rural projects of various sizes. The mix of work certainly shows that there is a need for honest, pragmatic advice to help clients navigate the often confusing and over-complicated planning regime.

 

Expertise not geography

 

I initially thought my focus for Candid Planning Consultancy would be my ‘home patch’ of Kent and East Sussex. Whilst my contacts in the local area have been invaluable, the work has covered a much broader area than I imagined, with projects branching as far as Essex, Gloucestershire and even Devon. A reminder to me that it is experience and expertise that counts not so much the geography.

 

Early advice saves time and money

 

The name Candid Planning was of course deliberate; born out of the firm belief that honesty is the best policy. I’m not afraid to tell you what you don’t want to hear because I want to give the best advice possible, based on years of experience. It pays off to be honest and upfront as it builds trust with clients. People remember.

 

Objections can be valid

 

Like many in the sector, I consider myself ‘pro-development’. People need housing, the economy needs business. But as a start up I have taken on more objections than I expected. Working on the “other side”, I’ve seen some applications that haven’t given due consideration to important planning issues. I’ve enjoyed working with and representing a variety of community groups and concerned residents, helping to put forward their concerns and fears into valid planning objections. Putting forward another point of view and giving underrepresented parties a voice at the planning table is important, and something that I am proud of.

 

Know your strengths

 

It’s been quite the adventure getting my head around the practicalities of setting up and running a business in the UK – accounts, tax, website, IT. It’s a real learning curve for someone who has previously only ever been PAYE. It’s only right that I give a big thank you to everyone who has helped (you know who you are). It is also a reminder that I am good at the day job. So, more planning and less admin, please!