The planning profession has become ‘inhibited and reticent to proclaim’ its contribution to society, incoming Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) president Dr Peter Geraghty has said in his inaugural speech as he also thanked his predecessor Colin Haylock.
RTPI writes
In his inauguaration speech Dr Peter Geraghty was quick to praise the outgoing President: ‘Colin has done a tremendous job during his year. He has represented the profession to great effect and has established strong working relationships with key players including the former planning minister Greg Clark. He has endeared himself to all he has met with his warmth and enthusiasm. I would like to thank Colin most sincerely for all his hard work and efforts during the past year. He has been a fantastic ambassador for the Institute.’
Following on from Colin Haylock’s successful presidential year, Dr Geraghty intends to draw on the legacy of some of the giants of the profession who inspired him to become a planner-Thomas Adams, Patrick Geddes, Raymond Unwin and Patrick Abercombie-and be ‘proud of planning and proud of planners’.
Dr Geraghty also said: ‘Adams, Geddes, Unwin and Abercrombie made a huge difference to the lives of people. They created places for people to live, places of beauty and inspiration. Whether in the private, public, or voluntary sector our working lives today are also spent trying to improve or enhance peoples’ lives. We should express our pride in this work and showcase the achievements of those who undertake it. We must be proud of what our predecessors have achieved and what we achieve on a day to day basis. That is why I intend to make it my mission this year on the eve of our centenary to showcase and highlight our achievements as chartered planners. I am proud of the profession and proud of planners.’
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