08 May 2017 < Back Latest News from the President of CAP - May 2017 08 May 2017 CAP members are busy around the world in their respective Institutes and also in international working groups working on the New Urban Agenda, Sustainable Development Goals and preparations for the next World Urban Forum to be held in Malaysia in February 2018. CAP currently represents over 40 000 planners from 27countries throughout the Commonwealth including African, Asian, Australasian and Caribbean countries. CAP also has a Women in Planning network and a Young Planners network and plays a leading role in developing the planning profession and planners throughout the countries of the Commonwealth. CAP works closely with other key stakeholders, such as UN Habitat, World Urban Campaign, General Assembly of Partners (GAP), Habitat Professionals Forum and the Prince’s Foundation for Building ‘ Community in promoting planning as being essential to sustainable development. CAP has presented at a series of Commonwealth, World Urban Forum and UN Habitat events calling for the endorsement of core values of planning for climate change, health, marine areas and small island states, good governance, gender equality and sustainable inclusive and equitable development. Good planning helps secure manage growth, and contributes to the wellbeing of individuals, communities and natural environments. CAP will continue to work with our global partners and members to advocate for good planning and to assist the profession and I look forward to leading the association in this important work. Dy Currie CAP President Former-President-Dy-Currie.png Former-President-Dy-Currie.png 1/1

By Kathryn Austin < Back CAP Elections 2023 25 October 2023 (Updated 14 November 2023) By Kathryn Austin The results of the Commonwealth Association of Planners elections for 2023 were announced at the General Assembly meeting, held in Putrajaya, Malaysia on 10 November 2023. On behalf of CAP, current President, Eleanor Mohammed, thanks all those who put themselves forward as candidates for demonstrating their interest in supporting CAP. The time, thought, and effort put into the nomination process is very much appreciated by all CAP members. Thanks also go to two members of the Interim Board for 2023 who will not serve on the new Board of Trustees, Pradeep Kapoor (Institute of Town Planners India) and Clive Harridge (Royal Town Planning Institute). Presidential Election Three candidates were nominated: Jua Cilliers (South African Planning Institute), Peter Geraghty (Royal Town Planning Institute), and Joakim Nyarangi (Kenya Institute of Planners) The elected President of CAP for 2024/25 is Jua Cilliers. Board Trustees Election There are seven places on the newly constituted Board of Trustees. In accordance with the Constitution, not more than one person from any one nation may be on the Board. Eleven candidates were nominated: Jihad Bitar (Canadian Institute of Planners), Jua Cilliers (South African Planning Institute), Darren Crombie (Planning Institute of Australia), Lawrence Esho (Kenya Institute of Planners), Peter Geraghty (Royal Town Planning Institute), Sepideh Hajisoltani (Royal Town Planning Institute), Stephen Harness (Royal Town Planning Institute), Ismail bin Ibrahim (Malaysian Institute of Planners), Bryce Julyan (New Zealand Planning Institute), Fazle Reza Sumon (Bangladesh Institute of Planners), and Ian Tant (Royal Town Planning Institute). The elected Board Trustees for 2024/25 are: Jihad Bitar ( Canadian Institute of Planners ) Darren Crombie ( Planning Institute of Australia ) Lawrence Esho ( Kenya Institute of Planners ) Ismail bin Ibrahim ( Malaysian Institute of Planners ) Bryce Julyan ( New Zealand Planning Institute ) Fazle Reza Sumon ( Bangladesh Institute of Planners ) Ian Tant ( Royal Town Planning Institute ) Original Post 25 October 2023 CAP is currently in the process of electing our new President and members of the Board of Trustees. While this is a closed election, all of the candidates are extremely qualified and impressive and we wanted to give everyone a chance to get to know the potential new members of our leadership team. Below, you will find the statements from all of our candidates, first from those running for the position of President, and next from those running for a position on the Board of Trustees. Nominees for President Mr. Joakim Nyarangi King’oina Kenya Institute of Planners www.joakimnyarangi.com Qualification BA. Urban and Regional Planning - University of Nairobi 2008; MSc. GIS University of Nairobi 2011; Registered and Practicing Professional Planner Registered and Practicing Environmental Assessment/Audit Lead Expert; Experienced GIS Expert Professional Experience 15 years as a Registered Professional Planner; 13 years as a GIS and Lead Environmental Expert in Urban and Regional planning; Familiarity Vice President - Commonwealth Association of Planners (CAP) (2021-2023); Interim Board of Trustees Member - Commonwealth Association of Planners (CAP); Interim Chairperson - Commonwealth East Africa Planners Network; President - Kenya Institute of Planners (KIP) (2021-2023); Honorary Secretary - Kenya Institute of Planners (KIP) (2016-2018); Patron - Kenya Young Planners’ Network; former vice chairman Young Planners Forum (YPF) 2014-2017 Character God Fearing, Purposeful, Driven, Optimistic, Ethical and Pragmatic Joakim Nyarangi: Aspirant for CAP President 2023 My name is Joakim Nyarangi- RPP, MCAP, MKIP, MEIK. I am an outgoing CAP Vice-President as the immediate former president of the Kenya Institute of Planners (KIP) and CAP Interim Board of Trustees Member. I love empowering communities and impacting the lives of people positively wherever I find myself. I am a God fearing, purposeful, driven, optimistic, ethical and pragmatic leader. I am vying for the position of CAP President 2023 and I need your support and VOTE! Why CAP President? This position is one of the most important offices in the Association of Planners as the President “is the principal spokesperson for the Association” as well as “is responsible, jointly with the board, to the member organisations for the orderly and proper conduct of all the affairs of the Association”. In this regard the president with support of the board of trustees is primarily responsible for inspiring professional planners and promoting the interests of the planning profession across the commonwealth and globally. Furthermore, I strongly believe that the welfare of member organisations is key to advancing the planning profession. It is therefore imperative for Vice presidents to elect someone who understands their interests and who is committed to strengthening member organisations. Why Vote for Me? I humbly believe that I have the requisite skills, robust ability, pertinent experience and worthy networks to function effectively as CAP President if elected. I have served in the CAP Executive Committee as CAP Vice President (2021-2023) as well as in the CAP Interim Board of Trustees. I have also served as Interim Chairperson of the Commonwealth East Africa Planners Network; President of the Kenya Institute of Planners (KIP) (2021-2023) and as Honorary Secretary Kenya Institute of Planners (KIP) (2016-2018). I am also the patron of the Kenya Young Planners’ Network and former vice chairman Young Planners Forum (YPF) 2014-2017. While serving in the CAP Executive Committee as Vice President I had the privilege to meet and make friends with dedicated Presidents and Vice presidents as well as devoted network leaders in CAP, the Commonwealth and other global associations. I also had the opportunity to interact and work with some amazingly committed people in the CAP secretariat and create unforgettable advocacy and visibility wins for CAP and Planning. We managed to place CAP as a notable partner in the Commonwealth Sustainable Cities Initiative Programme (CSCI) and promoted the Call to Action on Sustainable Urbanisation across the Commonwealth. We assisted the admission of the Rwanda Urban Planning Institute (RUPI) into CAP and initiated the Commonwealth East Africa Planners Network. I have participated and represented CAP in various international conferences including the Commonwealth Heads of Government in Kigali Rwanda, in which the CAP delegation successfully pushed the adoption of the Declaration on Sustainable Urbanisation. I also represented CAP during the second session of the UN-Habitat Assembly in Nairobi, Kenya during which CAP signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with UN-Habitat aimed at addressing the capacity gaps affecting local and national governments, urban professionals and academia, as well as other urban stakeholders. Throughout my time involved with the CAP Executive Committee as Vice-President and Interim Board member I have, jointly with other dedicated leaders, contributed and supported to realise the positive transformation of CAP through the Change of the CAP Constitution as well as the development of the CAP Strategic Plan (2023-2025). I am very proud and humbled by these experiences and I want to develop these further to advance the planning profession globally. As CAP Vice President I have demonstrated what is possible with my determination, drive and passion which has led to huge improvements for CAP and the planning profession globally. I will continue demonstrating what is possible as CAP President and drive forward improvements that YOU desire to achieve! I believe that these experiences will help me in functioning effectively and efficiently as CAP President. What do I Seek to Achieve if Elected? TO INSPIRE CAP MEMBERS AND ADVANCE THE PLANNING PROFESSION GLOBALLY Strengthen CAP member organisations; Inspire active member participation within CAP; Enhance CAP Advocacy and Visibility; Encourage formation of robust CAP Regional Networks/Societies; Support Young Planners’ Engagement; Champion Planning Curriculum Update and Accreditation; Foster Meaningful Partnerships; Support Engagement of Planning professionals across the commonwealth; Encourage Active Research in Planning Schools Prof. Elizelle Juanee Cilliers (Jua) South African Planning Institute Having been honoured with the roles of Chair for the CAP Women in Planning Network and now as the Co-Chair of the CAP Climate Action Working Group, my association with CAP has been a profound journey of growth and insight. These positions have provided me with a comprehensive perspective on the intricacies and potential of the planning profession throughout the Commonwealth. They have also powered my desire to make impactul contributions at a higher strategic tier. It is with this renewed vigor that I put forth my candidacy for President of CAP. Professional experience: I am currently the Head of the School of Built Environment, and Professor of Urban Planning at the University of Technology Sydney (Australia). I have 19+ years’ experience as Professional Planner, with professional registrations from both the South African Council for Planners (SACPLAN) and the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA). I am the Co-chair of the Climate Action Group of CAP and former Board Member of the International Society of City and Regional Planners. Internationally I have been working with the UN-habitat, the Habitat Profession Forum, Global Planners Network, and the International Centre for Local Democracy. It is with this global network and muti -national experiences that I believe I can contribute to take CAP forward. Diversity of Member Organizations: CAP's strength lies in its diverse member organizations, each bringing a unique perspective and set of experiences to the table. I hold registrations with both the South African Planning Institute (SAPI since 2012) and the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA since 2021). Having worked as a professional planner in both South Africa and Australia, I have firsthand experience navigating the complexities and nuances of planning in different cultural, socio-economic, and environmental contexts. I have also engaged with member organisation across the Commonwealth network, which has equipped me with a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities that our member organizations face. As President, I would prioritize fostering a culture of inclusivity, ensuring that every member organization are valued, heard, and empowered. Service to CAP: My service as the Chair of the Women in Planning Network and Co-Chair of the Climate Action Working Group has provided me with invaluable insights into the inner workings of CAP. These roles have allowed me to engage with a broad spectrum of stakeholders, from grassroots planners to global policymakers. Representing CAP at the UN- Habitat Assembly2 in Nairobi in 2023 was a defining moment, reinforcing the significance of our work within the global planning landscape. In my role as Chair of the Women in Planning Network, I was profoundly reminded of the pivotal role that inclusivity and gender equity play in shaping the future of our profession. As a prospective President of CAP, I am unwavering in my commitment to elevate these principles, ensuring that CAP not only endorses but exemplifies standards of diversity and inclusion. Concurrently, my tenure as the Co-Chair of the Climate Action Working Group has accentuated the imperative to embed climate considerations into the very fabric of our planning ethos. As we deal with the challenges of climate change, our response must be characterized by visionary, innovative, and collective action. As President, I am determined to channel the insights and expertise I've garnered from these roles, positioning CAP as a global forerunner in climate-adaptive planning and broader sustainability thinking. Vision for Membership and Education: The planning profession thrives on evidence-based decision-making. By tapping into the latest research, we can provide our members with insights into emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities. This not only enhances the quality of their work but also positions them as thought leaders in their respective domains. As President, I would advocate for partnerships with leading research institutions and think tanks, ensuring that CAP remains a repository of the most recent and relevant knowledge. I would also advocate for knowledge-sharing, as we see ample examples across the Commonwealth, of planners implementing innovative solutions to complex challenges. By disseminating these best practices, we can foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement. This would involve creating platforms for members to share their successes and learnings, facilitating cross-pollination of ideas and strategies. I am deeply motivated to serve as the President of the Commonwealth Association of Planners. I believe that my muti-national experiences, diverse responsibilities within CAP, coupled with my vision for our profession, make me uniquely suited for this role. Together, we can chart a course for CAP that is rooted in collaboration, education, and knowledge sharing, ensuring that our association remains a beacon of excellence in the global planning community. Dr. Peter Geraghty Royal Town Planning Institute I have been a strong supporter of the Commonwealth Association of Planners (CAP) throughout my career. I passionately believe it plays an important role in promoting planning internationally. I was proud to be the RTPI Representative to CAP in 2018- 2020. I fully understand the Association and the contribution it makes to planning across the Commonwealth. During my term as CAP Representative, I helped raise the profile and awareness of CAP in the UK and internationally. During my term, I worked hard to promote the interests of CAP. For example, in 2018, I wrote the first blog for the CAP website to promote the CAP Planning Awards in Cape Town: CAP Celebrates Planning Success | cap-website ( commonwealthplanners.org ) I also spoke at the Plan Africa Conference (2018). As CAP Representative I had responsibility for CAP’s social media output. I was involved in the CAP future leaders programme and I have worked on a range of CAP issues, and taken part in CAP meetings working with groups such as the Princes Foundation. I also contributed to the preparation of CAP’s revised Strategic Plan during my time as RTPI Representative to CAP. I have a strong commitment to the Strategic Plan including working to foster strategic, collaborative partnerships to promote good planning. I have a long-standing commitment to working on behalf of CAP and feel that there is more to be done in promoting the Association and its work including ensuring planning is a respected, valued and inclusive profession, which is why I am standing for the role. I was President of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) in 2013-14, and know the importance of promoting the profession internationally. As RTPI President, I worked with presidents from other international institutes including CAP. I know the role of being president and am confident I can bring valuable insight and experience to the position of CAP President. My RTPI presidential theme was entitled ‘proud of planning and proud of planners’ which was a campaign to promote professional planning and advocated for the value of planning. I believe, that as CAP President, I can promote planning across the Commonwealth and advance professional planning through advocacy, capacity building and sharing knowledge. I have valuable experience in a number of international roles. This experience will enable me to advocate for the profession and share knowledge. An example of this advocacy is from the time I was chair of the RTPI’s International Committee 2013-17. During my time as Chair, we produced several international publications: The Worldwide Value of Planning, Delivering Better Development, and A Guide to Working Internationally. As chair of the International Committee, I collaborated closely with both the current CAP president and previous two past presidents and Secretary General of CAP to progress issues of joint interest to the RTPI and CAP. I recognise the importance of capacity building and as Chair of the RTPI International Committee; I have met planners from a number of different jurisdictions including Australia, China, Kenya, Myanmar, Palestine, and the USA. This included discussions on a range of international planning issues. In my various roles, I have sought to promote the profession and share good practice including giving presentations to the New Zealand Planning Institute (London Branch) and Chinese delegations. I have spoken at the American Planning Association, National Conference in New York, (2017); Seminar on Urban Challenges across the Commonwealth at University College London, (2017); Planning Africa, Cape Town, South Africa (2018) and ECTP- CEU Biennial in Cascais (2013) and Plymouth (2019). I have also attended a meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on China. I have a detailed understanding of the work of CAP and I met regularly with CAP presidents and the Secretary General to discuss joint issues of interest. I was the RTPI Representative on Global Planners’ Network (GPN) 2013-17. In that role I chaired the quarterly GPN meeting, bringing together colleagues from institutes in America, Canada, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, CAP and ECTP- CEU. I am experienced in working with planning professionals across the Commonwealth. As the RTPI representative on the UK Built Environment Advisory Group on Humanitarian Issues (UKBEAG), I worked with fellow institutions on a range of international issues. I represented UKBEAG at the Global Alliance for Urban Crisis summit. As RTPI representative on UKBEAG, I have worked with fellow institutions on a range of international issues. I attended the Global Alliance for Urban Crisis summit in Brussels to represent UKBEAG. I participated in the RIBA International week in 2017. I also collaborated with colleagues in IFHP, International Society of City and Regional Planners and WUC. The objective of UKBEAG to provide a conduit for globally sharing built environment experience with humanitarian and development agencies. I have excellent communication and diplomatic skills including a play a thought leadership role internationally: writing and blogging on a number of global planning issues. I have written several blogs on planning, advocating good planning practice as well as support for the planning profession. I have also written a number of articles in planning journals over the years sharing knowledge and experience. At the RTPI, I was a member of the Equal Opportunities (Race) Panel 1997-2009 working for many years to promote inclusivity and equity. The publication of Delivering Better Development in 2015 also promoted the importance of planning in addressing poverty and inequality. I can bring the following attributes to the role: A passion for planning and advocacy of good professional practice A belief in the value of the importance of the Commonwealth Association of Planners A strong personal commitment to inclusivity and equality A passion for promoting and enabling planning to be a respected, valued and inclusive profession Strong leadership skills Experience of presidential roles Track record working collaboratively with institutions and organisations Intimate knowledge of the Commonwealth Association of Planners An International reputation with a wide network Experience of chairing with excellent diplomatic skills I have a long-held interest in, and passion for, international planning. Immediate impact being able to take up the role straight away. Nominees for Board of Trustees Mr. Ian Eric Tant Royal Town Planning Institute I am seeking election as a Board Trustee for CAP so that I may continue to serve the Association and to help complete the introduction of the new governance arrangements that I have worked conscientiously to help bring into effect. I am a Chartered Town Planner (RTPI Member) with 44 years’ planning experience in the public and private sectors. I have a wealth of experience to bring to the CAP Board, having been an equity Partner in a major UK planning and design consultancy (Barton Willmore LLP) for 26 years, for 10 of which I was the Senior Partner. I was a Board Trustee for the RTPI from 2017 to 2021 (a comparable role to that of CAP Board Trustee) and President of the Institute in 2019/20. I continue to serve as a Trustee of the RTPI Trust, a charity established by the Institute to provide support to planners in difficulties. From April 2020 to April 2023 I was the RTPI’s representative on CAP, serving an active role on the Executive Committee and as chair for the Governance Committee, leading the review of the governance and Constitution of the Association. Since early 2023, I have served on the Interim Board, preparing papers for both meetings of the Assembly. I have played an active role in supporting the work of the President and Secretary-General and have made presentations on behalf of CAP to (online) international meetings. As I no longer act as Board Trustee or CAP Representative for the RTPI, I have no difficulty in putting the interests of CAP first in any matters relating to the Association. I have already been fulfilling the role of Board Trustee and would be honoured to continue to serve for a term of 2 years. Mr. Mohammad Fazle Reza Sumon Bangladesh Institute of Planners I'm Planner Fazle Reza Sumon, a candidate for the Board Trustee of CAP for the year 2024 and 2025 Election, which will take place on November 8th, 2023. I studied at the Khulna University completing Bachelor of Urban and Rural Planning in 1999 and Masters in Urban and Regional Planning from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) in 2005. I have been a Fellow of the Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP) since 2010. I am a practicing planner holding the position of Senior Planner and head of Planning in TROYEE associates, a private consultancy firm that works mainly in the Asia region. I provide planning advice for many major urban planning agencies, central and local government and private clients of Bangladesh. Presently, I’m working as Team Leader of Climate Resilient and Green Action Plan (CRGAP) for the Hazaribagh and Lalbagh Area of the Dhaka South City Corporation, implemented by RAJUK (capital development and regulatory authority of Dhaka) with the financial assistance from Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) through the technical assistance from GIZ and GAP Fund. Before that I worked as Team Leader of Preparation of Development Plan Kushtia Sadar Upazila, Kushtia District imp as Team Leader as Team Leader implemented by Urban Development Directorate (UDD) and Preparation of Local Area Plan and Feasibility Study for Short-Term Measures of Newly Included 18 Wards of Dhaka North City Corporation. Last 22 years I'm engaging myself in the physical planning practices at government and private levels. As extracurricular activities, I'm representing myself as current President of 15th Executive Board of Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP). I was also acted as the Vice-President of 12th & 13th BIP’s Executive Board and as Joint- Secretary of 9th BIP’s Executive Board and Member (Membership Affairs) of 8th BIP’s Executive Board. Thanking you with regards, Planner Fazle Reza Sumon BIP Membership – F229 Manifesto for CAP Board Trustee (2024-2025) Election Assist the President and Secretary General of the Commonwealth Association of Planners (CAP) in promoting the Commonwealth Association of Planners (CAP) globally and ensuring that every planner in the Bangladesh Institute of Planners (BIP) and across the Commonwealth recognizes that they have a voice in the international planning discourse. Encouraging and promoting urban planning at all levels in Bangladesh with the assistance of the CAP. Establishing the sigificace of the National Physical Planning Authority and assuring the importance of physical infrastructure planning in all government and nongovernment sectors to the country's overall development. CAP must take the lead in establishing a gold standard for equity, diversity, and inclusion in the planning profession and the built environment. I like to contribute the board as Trustee Board member. Assist President and Secretary General of CAP for organizing a Planning Convention with the participation of planners from around the world every two years, as well as introducing the Young Planners Network and the Women's Planers Network. Twice a year, meet with the planners in a different locations/region. Mr. Bryce Julyan Te Kōkiringa Taumata – New Zealand Planning Institute For over two decades I have held leadership roles in Beca, a NZ-based multi-disciplinary consultancy that operates largely across the Asia Pacific, most recently as the Practice Lead for Planning, Communications and Engagement. I served on NZPI National Council as Hon. Treasurer. NZPI Board established in 2012 and I served as Chair (President role) for two terms (until 2018). 2014-2023 Served as CAP Vice President for Australasia-Pacific then VP for NZPI (and Pacific Champion). 2016, convenor of CAP’s Business Meeting and Conference in Fiji, following Habitat III. Outcomes included CAPs Fiji Declaration and launch of the Rapid Planning Toolkit. 2018, UN Habitat World Urban Forum (WUF9), Malaysia - led one of the working parties for establishing P4CA (Planners for Climate Action). https://www.planners4climateaction.org/ 2018, Review of Planning Methodologies in the Eastern Caribbean (post hurricane) - CAP, Caribbean Planners Association (CPA), and Caribbean Network for Urban Land management (CNULM). One of three practitioners from CAP member organisations who undertook the review. “The study conclusions are relevant across many other parts of the Commonwealth especially those areas with similar characteristics and challenges such as small islands in the Pacific and elsewhere.” - Clive Harridge, Secretary-General, CAP 2019, Fifth Pacific Urban Forum (PUF5), Fiji – convened session on Urban Land Use. Co- chaired side events promoting professional collaboration in the Pacific and development of the Fiji Planners Association (FiPA); 2019, hosted Prince’s Foundation Director, Ben Bolgar, in Auckland and attended a meeting with the Prince of Wales (now HM King Charles III). 2020-23 Editorial committee on commemorative book celebrating CAPs 50th and the future of Sustainable Urbanisation. By working together under a common umbrella with a common language CAP provides us with the ability to share knowledge, build partnerships, collaborate on initiatives and develop tools that are useful to our members across the Commonwealth. Strategically, with UN ECOSOC status we now have a stronger ability to influence and deliver on the SDGs. Rapid urbanisation and climate change are the most challenging issues for our members - in particular, providing for the most vulnerable or indigenous communities (leaving no one behind). Promoting capacity building and supporting professional recognition for planners/planning remains a key objective. Mr. Stephen John Harness Royal Town Planning Institute Through my involvement in CAP as a Board member I aim to focus on two areas, capacity building through networks of planners sharing their experience and mutually supporting their development and increasing the influence of the association. I have over 30 years of experience of Town Planning across a wide range of types and all sizes of schemes up to new Garden Villages, in the public and private sectors, from policy to implementation. I’m an enthusiastic champion of planning through my involvement in professional bodies. I was pleased to be elected a fellow of the Royal Town Planning Institute in 2020 after many years of active involvement in the institute including being on regional activities committees supporting capacity building and on the General Assembly. Most recently I have been chairing the SE Awards for Planning Excellence to increase the profile of planning. I am also the Deputy Head of Profession – Planning and Development for Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO). As part of that role, I promote cross government working between planners and support their development. My role for DIO not only means I have led planning of major projects across the four UK nations but also, across the world in as diverse locations as Cyprus, Belize and the Falkland Islands. I was also awarded the fellowship of the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust in recognition of my international research into planning. During my time on the Royal Town Planning Institute’s International Committee, I was pleased to help introduce and support the inaugural international awards. I helped diversify representation on the committee and increased the profile of its work. Should I be successfully elected to the board I aim to use that experience to help build upon the existing good work to champion excellent examples of planning from across the world. Mr. Darren Stuart Crombie Planning Institute of Australia I have been fortunate to have served with PIA as the Vice President representing Australia since 2018. During this time, I have been a regular and active participant in CAP Executive meetings and I have been part of the working group that undertook the CAP Governance review. These experiences have given me a broad understanding of CAP but have also deepened my understanding of the role of planning and the challenges faced by planners across the Commonwealth. I have served on the National Board of the Planning Institute of Australia since 2014. I have been a Vice President and the Chair of the Institute’s Policy and Advocacy Committee for 6 years. For the last three years I have been the National President of the Planning Institute of Australia and the Chair of the Institute’s governing Board. I have also been a Board Director for my company and on the Board of a jointly funded Government and University business incubator. I am also a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. My strong interest in governance coupled with my real world experience of Board directorship including Chairing the Board of a national planning institute, makes me well placed to serve as a Board Trustee for CAP. As CAP moves forward with its reformed governance structure, I am keenly interested in helping to embed the change to the new operating modal and feel I am well experienced and well qualified to help lead that transition as a CAP Board Trustee. As a board member, I would aim to work cooperatively and collaboratively with colleagues from around the Commonwealth. In doing this I would hope to see CAP growth and prosper and to see planners from across the Commonwealth working to make the world a better place for all. Dr. Sepideh Hajisoltani Royal Town Planning Institute I would like to take this opportunity and express my interest in joining the Commonwealth Association of Planners (CAP) Board. I have been a Full Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) since 2019 and I am currently the Chair of the Scottish Young Planners Steering Group Network (SYPN) for 2023. I have truly enjoyed my SYPN experience and I am very keen to represent young planners in a wider context on the CAP Board. As someone who comes from an ethnic minority in the UK and has navigated the professional planning route with a non-planning degree, I am a strong advocate for diversity in the planning sector. I have a multidisciplinary background in the built environment in the areas of planning, conservation, architecture and community-based development. The combination of my practical town planning experience gained as a result of working with a planning authority in the UK and my recent academic research activities as part of my PhD experience in Northumbria University carrying out extensive research on future cities have allowed me to develop a very good understanding of the planning issues we face at this time. I have worked in different contexts over the years and have the experience of working in public, private and third sector in different geographies. I believe this diverse experience will be a great asset for me in supporting the CAP President and the Secretary-General in leading and managing the Association and I look forward to contributing to its success. Dr. Jihad Bitar Canadian Institute of Planners I have over 20 years of experience in policy development, transit-oriented development, community planning, urban design, architecture, land development, and project management, and I am an award-winning planning professional. I'm a Senior Planner at Calgary's City, working in urban design. I hold a Ph.D. and a Master's in City Planning and Urban Design from Kyushu University and a Bachelor's in Architecture from Damascus University. I am a passionate planner dedicated to building resilient cities in Canada and the Commonwealth. I have volunteered with CAP and CIP and am a frequent guest speaker at the University of Calgary. My diverse experiences and multilingual skills make him an asset to the CAP Board of Trustees, as they work with a diverse and expanding community of planners. We are facing challenging times that are impacting us both personally and professionally. Some of us are struggling to find work, while others are worried about the health and well-being of their loved ones. However, we all share a common challenge of trying to improve ourselves and help others on this journey. I want to join the CAP Board of Trustees to serve the association's members and be their voice. My platform is to build upon CAP's achievements and ensure its members are well taken care of. As a board member, I aim to promote the importance of belonging in the planning industry by actively seeking to broaden, diversify, and increase the number of volunteers in CAP. Doing so can provide more growth and educational opportunities to all association members. Furthermore, I plan to increase participation in discussions and learning opportunities while aligning them with the professional development needs of our times. I plan to act as a change-maker and help evolve the professional institute by building and leveraging relationships with universities, industry professionals, and organizations. Prof. Elizelle Juanee Cilliers (Jua) South African Planning Institute Having had the privilege to previously serve as the Chair of the CAP Women in Planning Network and currently as the CAP Co-Chair of the Climate Action Working Group, my journey with CAP has been both enriching and transformative. These roles have not only deepened my understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the planning profession across the Commonwealth, but have also ignited a passion to further contribute at a strategic level. It is with this enthusiasm that I express my interest in serving as a board member for CAP. My tenure as Chair of the Women in Planning Network underscored the importance of inclusivity and gender equity in our profession. As a board member, I am committed to furthering this agenda, ensuring that CAP remains at the forefront of championing diversity and inclusion. Simultaneously, my role as Co-Chair of the Climate Action Working Group has reinforced the urgency of integrating climate considerations into every facet of planning. The existential threat of climate change demands proactive, innovative, and collaborative solutions. I am eager to bring the insights and experiences from this role, ensuring that CAP remains a leader in climate-responsive planning. The combined knowledge and experience of CAP's vast network of professional planners present an unparalleled opportunity. I envision a future where this collective strength is harnessed to address the most pressing challenges of our time, from urbanization to sustainability. As a board member, I aim to foster collaborations, drive strategic initiatives, and ensure that the role of planners is not just recognized but celebrated for the transformative impact they bring to communities. My experiences within CAP have prepared me to contribute effectively at a strategic level. I am deeply motivated to serve on the board, furthering CAP's mission of advancing professional planning across the Commonwealth and beyond. Prof. Plan. Lawrence S. Esho Kenya Institute of Planners Prof. Plan Lawrence Esho is a former President and Vice President of the Kenya Institute of Planners (KIP) and CAP, respectively, having served two consecutive terms from 2016 to 2020. With a distinguished career spanning over 25 years in the public, private and academic sectors, Esho brings to CAP the requisite knowledge, skills, aspirations, leadership and ambition that is necessary to push CAP to the next level. A passionate Planner, Professor, and promoter of the Planning profession in Kenya and around the world, his profound practical and theoretical knowledge of the contours, opportunities and constraints of Planning profession and education, globally, qualifies him to articulately make a case for Planning and Planners at the highest level. He espouses the need for top level education, professionalism and integrity for Planners, and demonstrates an active willingness to walk the extra mile of advocacy and volunteerism. Prof. Esho is a seasoned mobiliser and go- getter whose efforts not only saw the restructuring and doubling of KIP membership within his tenure, but also saw KIP develop expanded synergies with the government of Kenya and other partners. While KIP is still a young Institute, the seeds planted by Esho during his turn at the helm has placed it in good stead and assured its fast-paced trajectory for growth. During that time, he also made headways into the African continent by becoming a member and champion of the Association of African Planning Schools (AAPS), which is a pan-African organization that seeks to advance effective Planning education that responds to the development needs of Africa. Esho is a hardworking, diligent and respectful person with excellent interpersonal and communication skills. His confidence, eloquence and drive are key qualities for high-level representation. He commits to effectively serve as a Board Trustee with diligence, passion and dignity. Datuk Ismail bin Ibrahim Malaysian Institute of Planners As a Board Trustee, I shall uphold the objectives of the Commonwealth Association of Planners (CAP) and promote the importance of town planning in nation building. My experience spans over more than 35 years in the public and private sector, involving several landmark planning and development projects. I will be able to share the knowledge and lessons learnt for the benefit of the Board, the Association and members. My interests are in regional development, local government, planning law and administration, land use control and heritage conservation. My special skills are in investment driven economic development, catalytic innovation infrastructure development and public sector institutional reform. It would be a huge advantage to CAP if I can bring these items in many of the conversations with member nations with the view to create awareness and exchange knowledge in dealing with town planning issues. I strongly believe that for a city, region or nation to grow sustainably, it has to continuously innovate and transform. I am of the view that inclusive growth involved economic gains with social benefits and environmental protection. Community involvement, including the minority and youth, forms an integral part of the planning process which in turn will minimise any unintended consequences to growth. Based on the above I offer myself to stand for the post of Board Trustee. My experience, knowledge and skills are well suited for the role which will blend well with other Board Trustees. Dr. Peter Geraghty Royal Town Planning Institute I have been a strong supporter of the Commonwealth Association of Planners (CAP) throughout my career. I believe it plays an important role in promoting planning internationally. I was the RTPI Representative to CAP in 2018-2020. I fully understand CAP and the contribution it makes. As RTPI Representative I helped raise the profile and awareness of CAP in the UK and internationally. In 2018, I wrote the first blog for the CAP website promoting the Planning Awards in Cape Town: CAP Celebrates Planning Success | cap-website ( commonwealth-planners.org ) I also had responsibility for CAP’s social media output. I feel that there is more to do in promoting CAP and its work, which is why I have applied for the role. I have valuable experience in several international roles. I was chair of the RTPI’s International Committee 2013-17. We published - The Worldwide Value of Planning, Delivering Better Development, and A Guide to Working Internationally. I was RTPI Representative on Global Planners’ Network (GPN) 2013-17. I chaired the quarterly GPN meetings, bringing together colleagues from institutes in America, Canada, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, CAP and Europe. As RTPI representative on the UK Built Environment Advisory Group on Humanitarian Issues (UKBEAG), I worked with fellow institutions on a range of international issues. I represented UKBEAG at the Global Alliance for Urban Crisis summit in Brussels. I am experienced in working with international planning professionals and have a detailed understanding of CAP’s work. I met regularly with CAP Presidents and Secretary General to discuss joint issues of interest. I have been a Trustee for the RTPI and other organisations. I was also a member of the RTPI Equal Opportunities Panel 1997-2009 promoting inclusivity and equity. I have a strong commitment to CAP’s Strategic Plan, which I helped, update when CAP Representative. If you have been appointed by your planning institute to vote in the election, please make sure to submit your ballots no later than 31 October at 24:00 GMT. Ratification of the election results will occur at CAP’s General Assembly meeting on 10 November at the Putrajaya City Corporation Council Chambers 1 in Malaysia from 8:00 - 10:00 GMT+8 (Midnight to 02:00 UK time). This will be a hybrid meeting so if you are not able to attend in person, we ask you to join us online (details for online attendance will be provided soon). If you are unable to attend either option, our office will provide you with a Proxy Appointment Form. The President and Board of Trustees will commence their appointments on 1 January 2024. A big thank you to the Malaysian Institute of Planners Nation Planning Congress for hosting the General Assembly meeting this year. The Congress is taking place on 8-9 November, and you can find out more information about attending on our Events Calendar or on their website at https://mip.org.my/ . Previous Back to Top Next

CAP PRESIDENT & BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2026-2027 Working closely with Secretary-General Kelley Moore and the broader CAP team, this new leadership will guide the Association into its next chapter, leading and managing CAP's activities, representing the organization at international forums, and strengthening connections across our Commonwealth planning community. Together, they will advance collaboration, capacity building, and advocacy for planners and planning across the Commonwealth to help deliver a more sustainable, inclusive, and equitable future for all. Kelley Moore, MA, RPP, FCIP Secretary-General PRESIDENT Prof. Dr. Jua Cilliers SAPI BOARD MEMBER Lawrence Esho KIP BOARD MEMBER Jihad Bitar CIP BOARD MEMBER Bryce Julyan NZPI BOARD MEMBER Ismail Bin Ibrahim MIP BOARD MEMBER Prof. Dr. Adil Mohammed Khan BIP BOARD MEMBER Ian Tant RTPI BOARD MEMBER Darren Crombie PIA

05 February 2021 < Back Call to Action on Sustainable Cities 05 February 2021 On 2nd February 2021, CAP joined partner associations in launching a Call to Action on sustainable urbanisation across the Commonwealth. The Call to Action has been produced jointly by:CAP, the Association of Commonwealth Universities, the Commonwealth Architects Association and the Commonwealth Local Government Forum, working in association with the Princes Foundation. The release follows a programme of online events focused on sustainable urbanisation in the Commonwealth, which attracted over 2,000 individual participants from over 80 countries from June to September 2020. This replaced in-person debate at the postponed Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) due to have been held in June 2020. The aim remains to seek the support of all Commonwealth Governments in the rearranged CHOGM, held in Rwanda in June 2022. The Call to Action calls for: A greater focus on enabling sustainable urbanisation in Commonwealth policy making A Commonwealth dialogue to define and implement a new way of working across our respective networks towards multi-level governance and sustainable urbanisation A commitment by member states to a new Commonwealth Initiative of practical action to support sustainable cities and human settlements across the Commonwealth to respond to the Call to Action and to play their full role in achieving the SDGs. This will be driven by Commonwealth cities and human settlements, and delivered by relevant Commonwealth partners and other governmental, professional and technical partners. Visit the Commonwealth Sustainable Cities website for more, including a Good Practice Platform. Speaking about the Call to Action, CAP President Eleanor Mohammed says: “Planners around the world work with communities and governments to create the cities of the future. Sustainable Urbanisation is critical if we are to achieve resilient, inclusive and productive cities and given that urban economies account for 80% of the global GDP, we need them to be successful. The CTA asks for the leaders of Commonwealth nations to ensure Sustainable Urbanisation is at the forefront of the recovery and future development agenda.” 2021_Call_to_Action.png 2021_Call_to_Action.png 1/1

08 August 2018 < Back CAP Young Planners Essay Winners 08 August 2018 I am very pleased to announce that Joanna Patton (Canadian Institute of Planners) and Wessel Strydom (South African Planning Institute) are the winners of the GBP£1,000 (British pounds) grants to attend the CAP biennial Business Meeting and Planning Africa 2018 in Cape Town, South Africa 14-17 October 2018. A copy of their essay is available here: Joanna Patton (Canadian Institute of Planners) Wessel Strydom (South African Planning Institute) Both had great essays about different topical issues about how young planners in the Commonwealth can contribute to making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. Joanna’s piece was thought provoking, insightful and provided guidance to young planners on how to practice effectively for an aged population. Wessel’s essay made us reflect that sometimes we focus on the global/national policies, but Wessel’s piece highlights the importance of ‘place-making’ and small scale initiatives in creating sustainable places. Most importantly and what made these stand-out to the judges was that they recommended how planners should practice effectively in a planning profession that often does not look to practice from across the globe. Well done- we look forward to meeting you at this year’s Conference in Cape Town. Overall the standard of the submission was extremely high. We had over 30 entries, which is a great achievement in itself, so thank you all for time spent and giving us your valuable thoughts on this topic. Due to the high calibre of entrants we have decided with the support of the 7 other finalists, to also publish their entries: Rachel Akintunde (Nigerian Institute of Town Planners) Katherine Crerar (Royal Town Planning Institute) Jade Ansted (New Zealand Planning Institute) Roy-Layinde Hakeem (Nigerian Institute of Town Planners) Victoria Willes (Canadian Institute of Planners) Anna Bevington (Royal Town Planning Institute) Ian Stevens (Royal Town Planning Institute) We decided to publish these finalists because it is the goal of the CAP Young Planners Network to share practice and ideas across the Commonwealth and actively encourage Young Planners to challenge the Status Quo in our profession. The 9 essays here show the importance of new ideas, showing other young planners how they can implement SDG11 and what young planners could do, but most importantly it illustrates the work and thoughts of Young Planners which we can learn and implement in our daily work. Thank you all for your entries and we look forward to seeing your active involvement in the network again in the near future. Yours Sincerely, Viral Desai CAP Young Planners Network Co-ordinator 2018-Planning-Africa-Logo.jpg 2018-Planning-Africa-Logo.jpg 1/1

Calendar of events for Commonwealth Association of Planners and its members, and events of interest to planners globally. Calendar of Events See what's happening with the Commonwealth Association of Planners (CAP) and its Members on this calendar, which is updated often. Time zones are indicated; you can convert your time zone here.

CLIMATE ACTION Cities as the prime driving forces for climate action CAP can make a continuing contribution to addressing the multiple issues that arise from a changing climate. Our strength is in our considerable resource of professional planners who span the globe. CAP can be especially effective in the realm of climate change adaption and community resilience policies and actions. CAP’s Climate Action Working Group (CAWG) was established to mainstream climate actions. Planners have been at the forefront of climate change research and action. What planners need, worldwide, is shareable implementation policies and examples of projects and programs that assist in climate change mitigation, adaptation, and community resilience. CAWG’s mandate was to: Take an active part in UN-Habitat Planners for Climate Action initiatives Tie Climate Action to CAP’s Sustainable Cities Initiative/Partnership Develop Climate Action statements and responses to global events, calls for action Identify new partnerships and funding for projects and initiatives Prepare for UN Climate Change Conferences, UN-Habitat World Urban Forums, and similar events Develop resources and/or projects to build urban resilience to climate change impacts Create and post Climate Action content for CAP’s online channels. CAWG’s principles Through its actions, the CAWG attempts to follow certain two key principles: (1) focus on actionable and scalable responses to various climate impacts that are interconnected and global (2) build resilient communities that lead to more equitable social and economic opportunities for everyone. Why Cities Are Essential for Climate Action About 56% (4.4 billion) of the global population live in the cities and it is estimated 2.5 billion people will live in cities by 2050, according to the World Bank. Determined actions in urban areas can be influential in achieving long-term sustainability of the global energy system, including the carbon emission reductions required to meet the climate goals reached at COP21 in Paris. Cities are significant contributors to climate change. According to UN Habitat, cities: utilize 78% of the world's energy contribute more than 60% of greenhouse gas emissions, occupy less than 2% of the Earth surface. The International Energy Agency (IEA) highlights that cities represent 70% of the cost- effective emissions-reduction opportunities between now and 2050. Cities will be the determining factor in whether the world succeeds in limiting temperature rise to 2 degrees C (3.56 degrees F) and preventing the worst effects of climate change. Major areas of action include: heating and cooling, sustainable transport, bridging local and international policies. As a subset of Green Finance (COP 26), Climate Finance and the transfer of public resources from developed to developing countries will be crucial to mitigating and adapting to climate change. Climate finance will strengthen financially unstable countries in their most vulnerable climate circumstances. Designing urban green spaces for clim ate adaptation and mitigation According to the UNFCCC, urban green spaces contribute to the resilience and mitigation of climate change. Proper management of urban green spaces will enhance air quality, reduce the urban heat island effect, act as a flood mitigation system, and improve human health and well-being.

The peak organisation representing planners across the Commonwealth, CAP has championed and connected planners since its inception over 50 years ago. ABOUT CAP As the peak organisation representing planners across the Commonwealth, CAP has championed, promoted and connected planners and planning since its inception over 50 years ago. CAP is a volunteer-based organisation that draws support from our 30 Member Institutes, who in turn represent over 40,000 planners and allied professionals across the Commonwealth. As the peak organisation representing planners across the Commonwealth, CAP has championed, promoted and connected planners and planning since its inception over 50 years ago.CAP is a volunteer-based organisation that draws support from our 30 Member Institutes , who in turn represent over 40,000 planners and allied professionals across the Commonwealth. Our Member Institutes vary in size, complexity and the environments in which they contribute, but together we share a strong commitment to ensuring that the role of planners and planning is recognised, respected and remembered. CAP is guided in its activities by a Strategic Plan .

2025 CAP Planning Awards AND THE WINNERS ARE ... Planning for Human Settlements / Plan-Making in the Commonwealth Chemawawin Cree Nation Environmental Management Plan CANADA Chemawawin Cree Nation, Narratives Planning This submission is thorough and effectively meets all criteria for this category. The environmental management plan adopts a holistic and Indigenous-led approach, serving as an excellent model for others to emulate. It outlines a clear vision for the future of the area, along with practical steps for implementation. The jury is very impressed with the engagement process involving the Indigenous community, which is clearly reflected throughout the plan. This project promotes Indigenous planning and design principles, showcasing creativity rooted in Indigenous knowledge. It can be easily replicated and adapted across all Commonwealth states, including those with marginalized communities. Planning for Human Settlements / Plan-Making in the Commonwealth COMMENDATION City Plan Adelaide 2036: A Spatial Blueprint for Growth AUSTRALIA City of Adelaide, Australia The City Plan - Adelaide 2036 is an engagement-driven, data-led urban design framework. It will support the doubling of the residential population from 26,000 to 50,000 by 2036, while becoming more accessible, cooler, and greener, and driving investment in local and regional infrastructure and housing. The judges considered the approach to the plan to be an excellent example of city-wide planning, characterized by significant engagement, particularly in relation to climate change and resilience. Planning for Climate Change and Adaptation Delivering Flood Response and Resilience Through Innovative Planning NEW ZEALAND Beca Limited, Auckland Council, City of Auckland, New Zealand This nomination recognises the innovative planning approach that was implemented to deliver two significant flood response and resilience infrastructure projects in Mangere, Auckland, New Zealand, following the devastating flood events of 2023. The judges were impressed by the integrated approach with the community in developing a response plan to significant flooding. Significant collaboration and innovation. Planning for Climate Change and Adaptation COMMENDATION Coastal Protection Regulations CANADA Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) The recently adopted Coastal Protection Guidelines have introduced enforceable land-use controls to address sea-level rise, storm surge, coastal erosion, flooding, and the protection of sensitive coastal ecosystems, such as wetlands. Based on the latest scientific data, including erosion modelling, sea level rise projections, and floodplain mapping, the project established three mapped regulatory zones: Erosion Risk Areas, Flood Risk Areas, and Sensitive Coastal Areas. The judges were impressed with the integration of nature-based solutions and meaningful public engagement. The initiative promotes long-term land use certainty, public safety, and environmental resilience. Planning for Equitable and Inclusive Cities and Human Settlements COMMENDATION Street Art "Jalan Negara Kita" MALAYSIA Jalan Negara Kita Community Jalan Negara Kita is a community initiative that embodies the essential values of the equity award. The community started it to promote and revitalize a neglected area. Through collective efforts, the area has evolved into a vibrant public attraction. This initiative can easily be replicated across the Commonwealth. Planning for the Conservation of the Built and Natural Environment and Cultural Heritage The Kurunegala Lake Round Revitalization Project SRI LANKA Urban Development Authority, North Western Provincial Office, Kurunegala Municipal Council The Kurunegala Lake Round revitalization project serves as an exemplary model of integrated conservation planning, successfully blending heritage preservation, ecological restoration, and sustainable urban development. This initiative highlights the importance of integrating cultural, environmental, and heritage preservation into a cohesive framework that supports the community's overall development. Furthermore, the project has effectively implemented this plan within an urban context, which can often be a challenging environment. The methods and techniques used in this project demonstrate effective collaboration, significant social and environmental impact, moderate technical depth, and successful teamwork, all while incorporating nature-based solutions. These approaches are noteworthy and can be easily adapted by Commonwealth nations. Young Planner Award: Essay Competition Rajlaxmi Gaware Royal Town Planning Institute For the 2025 CAP Young Planners Award, young planning students or professionals were invited to submit an essay entry on the topic: Digital Twins and Participatory Futures: Democratizing Urban Planning Through Immersive Technologies Rajlaxmi’s essay demonstrates an impressive ability to make a highly technical subject both accessible and engaging. The writing is clear, concise, and inviting, ensuring that even readers outside the planning profession can grasp the implications of immersive technologies in shaping future cities. This communicative strength reflects a deep understanding of the importance of inclusivity in planning discourse. The discussion on 3D visualisation is particularly compelling. By presenting it as a relatable and tangible experience, the author effectively bridges the gap between digital innovation and everyday urban challenges such as traffic congestion and flooding. This connection between technology and lived experience powerfully illustrates how tools like digital twins can make planning processes more interactive, transparent, and people-centred. The essay also benefits from the integration of multiple case studies, which lend credibility and contextual depth to the arguments. Although these were not formally referenced, their presence enriches the essay’s analytical rigour and demonstrates an awareness of global applications of immersive planning. What distinguishes this essay most is its human authenticity—a reminder that, even amid digital transformation, planning remains a discipline grounded in empathy and public engagement. The essay captures this balance beautifully, combining technical understanding with emotional resonance. Overall, Rajlaxmi’s essay is thought-provoking, relatable, and well- articulated—a strong contribution to the discussion on democratising urban planning through technology and an exemplary piece worthy of recognition.

18 January 2016 < Back Good Planning Makes Societies More Resilient 18 January 2016 Dyan Currie and Clive Harridge, President and Secretary-General, respectively, of the Commonwealth Association of Planners (CAP), were recently in Malta to attend the Commonwealth People’s Forum (CPF) in the run up to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). The Malta Chamber of Planners (MACP) met with both Dyan and Clive and had the opportunity to exchange views on current planning issues, particularly with reference to Malta. The CAP represents over 40,000 planners worldwide and plays a leading role in developing the planning profession throughout the countries of the Commonwealth. The MACP forms part of the European section of CAP which also includes the Royal Town Planning Institute (UK) and the Cyprus Association of Town Planners. The main theme of this year’s CPF was ‘What makes societies resilient?’. This is a crucial current theme in view of issues relating particularly to climate change, increased urbanisation and poverty, issues very relevant to Malta. As Dyan clearly pointed out in her address at the CPF, proper planning is an important tool to ensure that strong societies are developed, societies which are resilient and can meet the challenges that the future may bring in a sustainable manner. According to Dyan ‘Good planning is the best way to manage urban growth, to secure the necessary infrastructure investment, determine appropriate settlement patterns for our cities and towns and to generate economic development that contributes positively to the well being of communities and the natural environments.’ The Planning Institute of Australia, had run a programme called ‘Planning Matters’. This programme, aimed at public and private sector organisations as well as the general public, sought to promote a better understanding towards the importance of planning as a discipline and as a crucial tool for sustainable development as well as create a greater understanding towards and support for the work of planners. This view is also strongly expressed by the Royal Town Planning Institute’s publication ‘Delivering Better Development: The role of the urban and rural planner’. Planning seeks to positively manage development through the creation of good policies and practical solutions for managing development, supporting economic growth and access to jobs whilst protecting the environment and building sustainably with the aim to improve places for the local communities. This is certainly not an easy task, particularly for Malta, and the more the country weakens its planning structures and mechanisms, the greater will be the problems faced in the future. Proper planning principles, in Malta, are often challenged by strong, well-resourced lobby groups representing commercial interests, which are often favourably considered by short sighted politicians at the expense of sustainable development. Despite the rhetoric, many a time, these developments have turned out to be speculative in nature, profitable only to their promoters and counter to the enhancement of the quality of both the environment and the life of the local community. Misjudged or flawed planning decisions, which may or may have not been taken intentionally and equally detrimental reluctance in the application of what may have seemed unpopular, have in the past resulted in a number of serious problems, particularly with regard to traffic congestion and safety, urban sprawl, pollution and overdevelopment. A lax application of planning policy, and a laissez faire attitude, have in general led to ‘market failure’. In land use planning it is fundamental to take good decisions in a timely manner and which are neither too rash and ill-thought nor unnecessarily protracted and damaging to the competitiveness of enterprise. Changes in the legislation to entrust greater power to the few rather than focusing on subsidiarity, community engagement and sustainability, will not only result in higher costs to the society to sustain infrastructure and public services, amongst others, but will also widen the divide between those who have and those who have not, increasing the possibility in future of greater dependency on the state and increased poverty, thus undermining society’s resilience. The Malta Declaration on Governance for Resilience which emerged from the CPF and presented to the Commonwealth Heads of Government states the following: ‘Achieving resilient urbanisation and planning for sustainable human settlements requires inclusive people’s participation. An ultimate goal in planning for resilient urbanisation is to work with governments and communities to ensure informed decisions are made in a democratic process. Planning for resilience is not a neutral technocratic process, but an inclusive one, bringing all stakeholders to the table.’ A weakening of proper people’s participation in the planning process decreases society’s resilience and Government is responsible to ensure that structures for public participation are transparent and strengthened. After all the setting up of the Small States Centre for Excellence, which was announced during last month’s CHOGM, aims to support efforts towards sustainable development planning, disaster risk planning and sustainable development. It is hoped that this newly formed centre will live up to its aims in a genuine effort to achieve sustainable development planning, particularly in Malta, thus ensuring a more resilient society in future. The Chamber’s website is www.kmap.org.mt and email info.kmap@gmail.com . Anthony Ellul, General Secretary, Malta Chamber of Planners NEWS-ITEM-Good-Planning....jpg NEWS-ITEM-Good-Planning....jpg 1/1

27 June 2018 < Back Cities as Drivers of Economic Growth – Meeting with the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland QC 27 June 2018 Clive Harridge joined representatives from The Prince’s Foundation, the Commonwealth Association of Architects and the Commonwealth Local Government Forum in a meeting with The Rt Hon Patricia Scotland QC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth at Marlborough House, London to discuss the opportunity provided by urbanisation to help deliver the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. They also discussed the challenges posed by rapid urbanisation, the need to build capacity, strengthen built environment policy and develop toolkits which are of practical use by communities and city leaders throughout the Commonwealth. The Secretary-General recognised that ‘Cities are one of the drivers of economic growth ’ and offered her support to drive forward the cities agenda. The meeting also provided an opportunity for Clive Harridge to present CAPs Survey of the Planning Profession in the Commonwealth which was highly praised. 2018-CAP-Cities-as-drivers-of-2....jpg 2018-CAP-Cities-as-drivers-of....jpg 2018-CAP-Cities-as-drivers-of-2....jpg 1/2

CAP represents the interests of over 40,000 planners in more than 30 Commonwealth countries. We advance urban and regional planning to meet the challenges of sustainable urbanisation. BENEFITS OF JOINING CAP represents the interests of over 40,000 planners in more than 30 countries across the Commonwealth. Our Mission is the advancement of urban and regional planning across the Commonwealth to meet the challenges of urbanisation and the sustainable development of human settlements. If you belong to your national planni ng organisation and they are a CAP MEMBER , you also derive the benefits of membership! CAP’s members are the national planning bodies of Commonwealth countries and we also assist in Commonwealth countries without national planning bodies. Through our work as planners we seek to achieve an effective contribution to the well-being of society and the creation of more sustainable settlements and adequate shelter for all. Meeting the challenges - together Given the Commonwealth’s total population of 2.6 billion citizens, 60% of whom are under the age of 30, working together to meet the challenges of urbanisation and sustainable development of human settlements makes sense. We aim to strengthen the planning profession in the Commonwealth through knowledge sharing, education, research, collaboration with other professionals and the dissemination of good practice. CAP seeks to focus and develop the skills of urban and regional planners across the Commonwealth. We hold conferences where ideas and practical experiences can be shared and compared. CAP has links with its members, with other professional associations, and with non-governmental organisations involved in the struggle to improve human settlements, to alleviate poverty and to move towards sustainable development. CAP welcomes opportunities to participate in activities which bring together planners and communities and /or other professionals. Our Work Programme Our work programme addresses the biggest challenges faced by Commonwealth planners including climate change, health, capacity building, food security, planning education, resilience and gender.Through these initiatives and the promotion of improved forms of participatory governance and new approaches to urban planning we aim to help achieve a more sustainable future for all.These challenges are often made worse by planning resources being very limited particularly in those countries experiencing the most rapid urban growth; also in many smaller countries planning education is virtually nonexistent. CAP provides an opportunity for planners across the Commonwealth to share experiences and work together to help tackle these and other issues. Much of the work is undertaken on a voluntary basis but we also receive funding for specific projects from a number of sources including the Commonwealth Foundation and UN Habitat. CAP is unique among international planning organisations in having direct access to Commonwealth Governments at the biennial Commonwealth Heads of Government meetings (CHOGM) and parallel Commonwealth Peoples’ Forums. Through active engagement in these events CAP has successfully ensured that the value of planning is recognised at the highest levels in Commonwealth Governments. CAP also has a Women in Planning network and a Young Planners network and plays a leading role in developing the planning profession and planners throughout the countries of the Commonwealth.