Planner at Urbanissta Development Planning - Kathryn Waldron

“Now is a great time to start a career in planning, as the housebuilding industry begins to bounce back after the recession.”

Following the end of the course in September 2012, I wasn’t able to find a job in planning very easily and so I volunteered in a local authority for three months to gain practical experience. I joined Test Valley Borough Council in May 2013 as a Planning Assistant, which is where I was at graduation (September 2013). I joined the planning consultancy Urbanissta Development Planning at the beginning of June 2015.

Has your career path changed since graduation?

No, my career path has been focused on planning and getting to chartered membership.

What is the most difficult thing which you have faced in your career?

Facing criticism from colleagues at round table discussions and by members of the public at exhibition.  

What is the best, most exciting or fun thing that you have done in your career?

Being a young woman in the world of planning, which is often seen as a male dominated sphere, and being able to influence decisions.

What advice would you give to anyone wanting to get in to the same line of work?

Planning is much more complex than refusing someone’s planning permission. Now is a great time to start a career in planning, as the housebuilding industry begins to bounce back after the recession.

How did studying at Plymouth help you?

It gave me the starting point in becoming a professional chartered planner, for which I am currently working towards.  

What is your favourite memory of studying at Plymouth?

The field trip to Torbay to examine Coastal Urban Regeneration in practice.

Would you recommend undertaking a course with Plymouth University, and why?

Yes, the planning degree was a helpful mixture of theoretical and practical learning and teaching. The lecturers are dedicated and help support students so that they can maximise their potential.