Planning: things can only get better
Join us at New College, Oxford
The premier event in UK planning
Looking to engage with the biggest issues of the day? The Joint Planning Law Conference is the UK’s best-known annual event for planning professionals, from developers and town planners to lawyers and chartered surveyors.
Every September, we lay on an indispensable programme of talks, delivered by the industry’s leading experts. Keep up to date with the latest legal and environmental developments and gain insight into future trends and reforms. Connect with colleagues across the sectors. All within the dreaming spires of Oxford University.
2024 Programme
- 16:30–17:00
Arrival, registration, and tea
New College - 17:00–19:00
Newcomers’ welcome tea with organising committee
New College - 19:00–20:00
Drinks reception in Cloisters, New College
New College - 20:00–23:00
Informal dinner
New College Dress code: smart/casual.
With keynote address by Thomas Heatherwick, one of the UK’s most prolific designers, whose varied work over two decades is characterised by its originality, inventiveness and humanity.
chair
keynote speaker
- 08:00–09:30
Breakfast
New College - 09:30–09:40
Conference chair’s introduction
Rhodes House chair
- 09:40–10:15
Opening address
Rowan Moore, architecture critic of the Observer and was named Critic of the Year at the UK press awards 2014. He is the author of Slow Burn City and Why We Build.
speaker
- 10:15–10:35
Questions & Discussion
chair
- 10:35–11:00
Coffee and Networking
Rhodes House - 11:00–11:35
BIGGER: Delivering more (and better)
how can Development Corporations and New Towns play a leading role in the delivery of new homes and what opportunities and challenges do they bring?Anthony’s paper will provide an overview of development corporations and new towns and the context to the consensus that these bodies are an effective way to deliver homes and neighbourhoods at scale and at pace. Based upon his experience leading the town planning team at the London Legacy Development Corporation, his paper will then provide commentary on the successes of the development corporation model, including lessons learned and the key ingredients which have been necessary to support the delivery of award-winning new neighbourhoods in and around London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. The paper will conclude with observations on the opportunities that development corporations and new towns provide as well as a consideration of the on-going challenges for them.
speaker
- 11:35–11:55
Questions & Discussion
chair
- 11:55–12:30
SIMPLER: Two Cheers for Design Codes
tempered optimism for the current trajectoryAllies and Morrison offer a design perspective on the Government’s intention to ‘simplify’ the planning system through Design Codes: almost 20 years on from their pioneering Kings Cross masterplan, the practice reflects on the pros and cons of design coding, and other design controls, in supporting the delivery of exemplary development.
speaker
- 12:30–12:50
Questions & Discussion
chair
- 12:50–13:50
Lunch and Networking
Rhodes House - 13:50–14:25
SMARTER: Bits and Bricks – The Foundations of Digital Planning
The digital planning industry is at a turning point, and the sector’s appetite to embrace new technological tools is growing at pace. To make lasting and impactful change, it’s imperative that we examine the foundational principles guiding our operations and information dissemination in planning. Looking beyond the buzz words, this session will explore the building blocks of digital planning, what essential steps are necessary for the industry to foster greater efficiency and effectiveness, and offer insights into the possibilities of a digitally-enabled future.
speaker
- 14:25–14:45
Questions & Discussion
chair
- 14:45–15:20
GREENER: Achieving Net Zero, the Role of Planning
In order to meet our climate targets, the carbon emissions of buildings needs to radically reduce. This session will investigate the role of planning policy and planning law to support the whole life carbon reductions required to meet our legally binding climate targets, looking at new and existing buildings. It will explore the role of regulation, local policy, voluntary standards and other drivers have in driving down reductions, as well as debating whether a national or a local approach is needed.
speaker
- 15:20–15:40
Questions & Discussion
chair
- 15:40–16:00
Tea and Networking
Rhodes House - 16:00–16:00
Historical walking tour of Oxford (Optional)
Rhodes House “Oxford’s Alumni: Shaping the World: Following in the footsteps of the remarkable array of leaders, thinkers, and creators who have left an indelible mark on the world”
- 16:00–18:30
Free time
- 18:30–19:30
Sweet & Maxwell champagne reception
New College - 19:30–23:00
Black tie JPLC Gala Dinner
New College in new college dining hall followed by late night entertainment
Guest speaker to be announced shortly
- 07:30–09:00
Breakfast
New College - 08:00–09:30
Church Service
New College Chapel - 09:30–09:40
Conference chair’s introduction
Rhodes House chair
- 09:40–10:15
BOLDER: A Zoning System for England
Over the course of a single Parliament, politicians have shifted planning reform from the fringes of public debate to the centre of economic policymaking. But for planning reform to provide a large boost to the economy, the planning reforms must also be large. To meet the scale of the challenge, Centre for Cities has proposed replacing the discretionary planning system with a new flexible zoning system typical of the rest of the developed world. In this session, the case for root and branch reform and a sketch of what a new planning system might look like will be presented and discussed.
speaker
- 10:15–10:35
Questions & Discussion
chair
- 10:35–11:10
Legal Update
Discussion of the key themes that emerge from case-law over the past year.
speaker
- 11:10–11:30
Questions & Discussion
chair
- 11:30–11:30
Conference close
Rhodes House
Expert speakers for 2024
Expert speakers for 2024
Rachel Mundell
Rachel is a Director at Allies and Morrison Architects, having joined the practice in 2012. She is a registered architect with degrees from both Bath and Westminster University. Rachel’s portfolio of projects ranges across sectors, from student accommodation to large-scale urban masterplanning to residential and commercial developments. She is a member of the practice’s Higher Education Group and leads practice work in Oxford.
Prices
All bookings will be confirmed immediately by automated email. You will have the option to download an invoice and a copy will also be included in the email – please check your junk folder. If you do not receive the email within 3 mins of booking Please contact us. for a copy as your server maybe blocking the automated email address.
Once bookings have been made payment is due within 14 days of issue. Please see terms and conditions below.
The fee includes:
- Two nights’ ensuite bed & breakfast at New College
- Saturday lunch at the Oxford Union
- Pre-dinner reception
- Friday night informal dinner with wine
- Champagne reception
- Saturday night gala dinner with wine
- Refreshments
- Conference materials and access to the post event digital package (as set out below).
Prices 2024
- Early-bird participation fee (Early bird rate ends at midnight on 30th June - invoices to be paid within 14 days of booking please) £850.00 + VAT = £1,020.00
- Participation fee (bookings after 30th June) £899.00 + VAT = £1,078.80
- “Next Gen” Scholarship fee* £449.50 + VAT = £539.40 (limited numbers available - see terms)
- JPLC Digital Package (if unable to attend the event in person and would like access to the written papers and recordings) £199.00 + VAT = £238.80
- Free local authority places subject to availability - applications must be submitted before 5 July 2024 for consideration.
We have a limited number of sponsored local authority places this year (including accommodation at New College for 2 nights/meals but excluding travel).
- Subject to availability.
- One per local authority in the first instance with a potential of a second place if available.
- Geographical spread taken into consideration.
- First time attendance at the conference also taken into consideration.
Applications will be reviewed 8 July 2024 and allocated shortly after this.
Once the place is offered you will be asked to complete your registration within 7 days, if your confirmation is not received the place will be reallocated.
This offering is kindly sponsored by: Landmark Chambers; 39 Essex Chambers; Cornerstone Barristers, Kings Chambers, Planning Officers Society, Quod and Imperial College London
Please apply for a place by contacting us.
A limited number of scholarship places are available per profession, to those who are unable to be funded by their organisation, supported by our ”Next Gen” supporters’ scheme, for individuals qualified for less than 5 years and barristers below 5 years’ call. Only one person per organisation/set of chambers will be accepted in the first instance. Priority will be given to those who have not received a place before.
If you are interested in a place, Please contact us. to check availability before booking as these spaces are subject to availability.
We have a limited amount of car parking spaces available this year at St Cross car park, approx 10-15mins walk from New College (you can always leave your luggage with the Porters’ at New College before parking). The cost for a space from Friday till Sunday is £45.00 + VAT.
We recommend that delegates arrive by train or other public transport. There are park and ride sites around the outskirts of Oxford which are open 24 hours. You can park for up to 72 hours for approx. £15 including bus ticket oxford.gov.uk/parkandridesites. Or alternatively you can use justpark.com to find a parking place in Oxford.
This package is for delegates who are unable to attend the event in person. The speakers presenting the main papers will be recorded on the day – these recordings will be made available post-event for up to three months together with access to the speaker’s written papers. The cost for this package only is £199.00 + VAT per person.
Rhodes House: The 2024 Venue
The presentation of the papers at the Conference has traditionally taken place at the Oxford Union. Sadly the building is unavailable this year due to upgrades and refurbishments.
The Committee considered alternative venues and selected Rhodes House because it best met the range of logistical, financial and quality criteria.
The Committee is aware of the ongoing debates within and beyond the University about the Rhodes Trust. The Trust itself is reviewing and critically engaging with its history and legacy including re-imagining Rhodes House (Further information is available here).
For its part the JPLC Committee continues to seek to widen and diversify participation at this and future conferences including through “Next Generation” Scholarships and pro-actively seeks applications from under-represented groups attending the conference – often for the first time.
It is expected that the Conference will return to the Oxford Union in 2025.
Terms & Conditions of booking
- Delegates are members of the RICS, RTPI, the Law Society, the Bar or another professional body.
- Registration is considered binding immediately. Payment is required within 14 days of booking. Early bird fee must be paid by end of June (or within 14 days of invoice) otherwise full participation fee will be due.
- Numbers are limited and bookings will be taken on a first come, first served basis.
- Once the booking is placed online you are liable for full payment of the invoice.
- Refunds will be given for cancellations made in writing before 7 August 2024 less an administration charge of £90+VAT. No refunds will be given after this date and unpaid invoices for the full fee of any person cancelling after this date will still be due. Substitute delegates will be accepted.
- VAT will be charged at the prevailing UK rate.
- The organisers reserve the right to vary the speakers and content within the overall objectives of the conference.
- Each Attendee requires their own place on the conference.
- The organisers accept no responsibility for views expressed or contained in the conference documentation.
Frequently asked questions
We answer your most commonly asked questions about the JPLC...
The Joint Planning Law Conference (JPLC) is set in Oxford and provides a weekend of learning, debate, interaction and networking. Brought to you by a committee from the four professional organising bodies: The Law Society, The Bar Council, Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and the Royal Town Planning Institute, delegates will take away valuable updates and ideas relevant to their daily practice.
The conference is run on a not-for-profit basis, ensuring that you get the most from your conference fee.
The conference takes place from the evening of Friday 20 September until late morning on Sunday 22 September. Accommodation and dinners are in New College Oxford which is known for its high-quality catering.
The conference sessions take place this year at Rhodes House conference centre.
Grow your network, catch up with friends and peers and reconnect with former colleagues. Enjoy lively and constructive debate with professionals from all walks of the planning world – including invited guests from DLUHC, the Planning Inspectorate, the Scottish Government, PACNI, DAERA, the Welsh Government and other Government organisations.
You will meet a whole host of professionals at various stages in their planning career. That might mean you’re enjoying a drink with one of our established, key speakers or debating new ideas with someone who has just entered the field.
To give you a clearer idea, most of our attendees will already be members of the RICS, RTPI, Bar Council or Law Society and the below companies are among the many that have attended JPLC in previous years.
39 Essex Chambers; 6 Pump Court; Aardvark Planning Law; Aaron & Partners LLP; Addleshaw Goddard LLP; Amos Ellis Consulting Ltd; An Bord Pleanala; Ansons Solicitors; Argent LLP; Ashurst LLP; Bar Council; Battersea Power Station Development Co; Berkeley Group; Berwin Leighton Paisner LLP; Bircham Dyson Bell LLP; Blake Morgan; British Land; British Property Federation; Brooke Smith Planning - An Arcadis Company; BrookStreet des Roches LLP; Brunel Planning; Burges Salmon LLP; Burstow Law Solicitors; CALA Homes Midlands; Carson McDowell LLP; CBRE; Charles Russell Speechlys LLP; Chase and Partners; Cheshire West and Chester Council; City of Westminster; Clarke Willmott LLP; Cleaver Fulton Rankin Ltd; Clyde & Co LLP; CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang LLP; Colliers International; Cornerstone Barristers; Countryside Properties; Cunnane Town Planning; Deacon Crickmay Asset Management; Dechert LLP; Deloitte LLP; Dentons UK and Middle East LLP; Depart. Of the Environment for Northern Ireland (DOENI); DLA Piper UK LLP; DLP Planning; DP9; Dutton Gregory LLP; DWD LLP; East Devon District Council; Edge Planning & Development LLP; Environment Agency; Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP; Exchange Chambers; Forsters LLP; Francis Taylor Building; Gateley Plc; Gerald Eve LLP; Gowling WLG (UK) LLP; Gunnercooke LLP; GVA; Herbert Smith Freehills LLP; Heritage Property Group; HGH Planning; Hogan Lovells International LLP; Homes England; Howard Kennedy LLP; Iceni Projects; Impact Planning Services; Irwin Mitchell LLP; JCL Planning; Kent County Council; King & Wood Mallesons LLP; Kings Chambers; Knights; Landmark Chambers; Law Commission; Law Society; Lexis Nexis UK; Lichfields; Lincolnshire County Council; Linklaters LLP; London Borough of Brent; London Borough of Hillingdon; London Borough of Wandsworth; London Communications Agency; London First; Marc Dorfman Consulting; Marrons Planning; Mauger’s Legal Services; MHCLG; Michael Kiely Planning & Regeneration; Mills & Reeve LLP; Minter Ellison; Mishcon de Reya LLP; Montagu Evans LLP; Mott MacDonald; Nathaniel Lichfield & Partners; No5 Chambers; Norton Rose Fulbright LLP; Osborne Clarke LLP; Pemberton Greenish LLP; Pinsent Masons LLP; Pitmans Law; Planning Appeals Commission, NI; Planning Inspectorate; Porta Planning LLP; Quod; Radcliffe Chambers; Red Lion Chambers; Reigate & Banstead Council; Richard Buxton Environmental & Public Law; RICS; Rix and Kay Solicitors LLP; Ropemaker Chambers; Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea; Royal Town Planning Institute; RPS CgMs; Russell-Cooke LLP; Savills; Scottish Government; Shakespeare Martineau; Shoosmiths; Sidley Austin LLP; SLR Consulting; Sustrans; Taylor Wessing LLP; Teignbridge District Council; Temple Bright LLP; Terence O’Rourke; Thomas Eggar LLP; Thomson Reuters; Town Legal LLP; Travers Smith LLP; Trinity Chambers; Tughans Solicitors; Turley; Tyler Grange; University of Oxford Estates Services; Urban&Civic; Vail Williams LLP; Walker Morris LLP; Walton & Co; Wedlake Bell LLP; Welsh Government; West Waddy ADP; Westminster City Council; Winckworth Sherwood LLP; W YG Planning & Environment .
Each year we welcome many new faces - the JPLC is designed to be an inclusive and welcoming event. One example of this is our “welcome” tea for newcomers which kicks off late on Friday afternoon so that you are able to meet members of the committee as well as fellow first-time attendees before the event even begins.
As a general rule, yes, although if you have a keen interest in the area and are not a member of one of the four professional bodies please contact us for clarification via email (lucinda@jplc.org) or phone (07879 228775)
If you work in or have an interest in planning, the JPLC Oxford is a must.
It is a unique event that invites members of the four planning professions to mix over a weekend and discuss key issues they are currently facing as well as those they will face in the future.
The only conference of its kind, the JPLC Oxford has been running for over 50 years and remains the UK’s leading annual planning law conference. The reason it has stood the test of time is that it consistently provides a quality experience. You can always expect inspiring speakers who are leaders in their field, a relevant agenda and an opportunity to network with colleagues in a relaxed atmosphere, that is difficult to find anywhere else.
Immersive and inspiring, some additional highlights include:
- The UK’s leading annual planning law conference
- Excellent speakers deliver topical research papers
- Ideal for planning professionals at all career stages
- A multi-disciplinary planning committee ensures high quality content relevant to all delegates
- A 50% discount “Next Gen” scholarship scheme for recently qualified delegates
- Sponsored Local Authority places available to attend free of charge.
- CPD is available
- Friendly, informal networking opportunities
- 2 day residential conference enables you to catch up with old colleagues and meet new in an informal atmosphere.
- Beautiful Oxford University setting
The full programme is put together by the committee, who invites the speakers to regular meetings and talk through their unique papers. They are tasked with giving guidance from the point of view of each profession on what is topical in the profession currently. It is a carefully planned and managed event with enough structure to provide you with maximum value for money and enough flex to ensure you have a unique experience year-on-year.
Listen to original in-depth presentations by our industry’s leading thinkers, based on research papers specifically prepared for JPLC delegates.
All delegates attend one programme, and there is plenty of opportunity for questions and discussion.
Enjoy Take advantage of our fantastic venue, with ensuite accommodation in 14th-century New College and talks at the nearby Rhodes House conference centre. The programme includes drinks receptions, dinners including a gala dinner on the second evening, and time to explore the city.
Yes - we have increased the number of papers to achieve at least eight hours of technical content for CPD purposes. Take a look at what each organising body has to say:
The Law Society – “The conference counts as non-accredited CPD 8-10 hours”
The Bar Council – “This event is self-certifying for barristers you need to record your own value for CPD”
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors – “Attending this conference may qualify for CPD (10 hours +). RICS members should evaluate what they have learnt, the benefits gained and the time spent. This can then be registered in the member’s online personal development planner www.rics.org”
The Royal Town Planning Institute – “This event may be acceptable for up to 10 hours of CPD for RTPI members. However, the responsibility for judging the relevance and value of events and other forms of CPD lies with the individual RTPI member”
Is the JPLC for me?
If you’ve read through our FAQs and browsed our website but you’re still not quite sure if JPLC Oxford is the conference for you, we’d be happy to talk to you directly to help guide your decision. Please contact us.