Join us on 20 October, 5.30–7.30pm at Platf9rm Hove, for a timely and thought-provoking Construction Voice event exploring whether our local planning system is still fit for purpose.

With rising housing demand, under-resourced planning departments, new pressures like biodiversity net gain and competing land use priorities, we ask: is the current planning process helping or hindering growth and community character in Brighton & Hove?

This conversation comes at a pivotal moment for our city - and our country. With local government reform and devolution on the horizon, the role of planning in enabling economic growth and shaping the places we live and work is under the spotlight like never before.

Nearly a decade on from the Planning Peer Challenge that set recommendations for improvement at Brighton & Hove City Council, we’ll examine what’s changed, what’s worked - and what still needs fixing.

We’ll be joined by:

- Nicola Hurley, Head of Planning, Brighton & Hove City Council

- Liz Hobden, Principal Consultant, Planning Advisory Service (and former Head of Planning at Brighton & Hove City Council)

- Kelvin MacDonald, Chair of Brighton Housing Trust and Fellow of the RTPI 

Together, they’ll bring local insight and national perspective on the evolving role of planning, and how industry and government can work better together.

We’ll also reveal the results of the Construction Voice planning survey – with fresh data on your experiences of navigating the local system.

If you work in construction, property or development, this is your chance to have your voice heard and be part of the solution.

Let’s talk about how we make Brighton & Hove truly open for business.

About Construction Voice

Brighton Chamber has been bringing together the city’s leading figures from the construction and property sector for Construction Voice, for over 10 years. It’s a space for architects and developers; surveyors and builders; politicians and planning officers to have their say on the topics that are important to our city. Find out more about Construction Voice and previous events here.

Please note, this event is just for businesses who are working in the property and construction sector.

With thanks to our event partners, MGAC , Haydon Consulting, Graves Jenkins, Hampson Architects and Lewis & Co Planning.

Copy by: Flo Powell, Midnight

FAQs

What's the refund policy? Places are limited, and events are usually oversubscribed. Please give five working days’ notice via email for a refund* or you’ll be required to pay for your place in full.

*Eventbrite booking fees are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled or there are duplicate charges.

Can I attend if I am not a member of the Chamber? This event is open to both members and non-members. If you'd like to join the Chamber you can find out more on our website.

Can I attend if I am not in the property or Construction sector? This event is for businesses whose main work is in the property and construction sector.

How do I find out about other upcoming events and news? To receive news about the Chamber and our events please sign up to our mailing list.