New trainee planners welcomed by Infrastructure Minister

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Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins and Chris Corken, Head of School of Science, Engineering & Construction at Belfast Metropolitan College, welcome eleven new trainee planners as they commence their Trainee Planner Programme.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has welcomed eleven new trainee planners as they begin their studies at Belfast Metropolitan College, marking the first time since planning reform in 2015 that staff have been appointed to the trainee planner grade.

The trainees attended a reception at Belfast Met where Minister Kimmins outlined the importance of the programme. Speaking at the event, she said: "Planners bring enormous benefits to communities, the environment, the economy, to government and to everyday life. This Trainee Planner Programme will provide our new planning trainees with a great opportunity to work towards a qualification and a career that will allow them to play a key role in how the environment in which we live and work, is shaped for future generations."

The Department for Infrastructure has worked in partnership with participating local councils to enable the trainees to study for a Foundation Degree in Property, Housing and Planning over a three-year period. The comprehensive programme consists of both on the job training and study at Belfast Met. The Councils taking part are Newry, Mourne Down District Council, Belfast City Council, Antrim Newtownabbey Borough Council and Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon District Council.

Councillor Kimmins said the initiative is just one of a number of positive steps being taken to address issues with recruitment and retention in the system. The Minister added: "It is just one of a number of positive steps that I am taking to address issues with recruitment and retention in the system and reflects my own commitment to improving the planning system, not only for the wider public, but also to support the health and wellbeing of those staff already working in the system."

Cllr Cathal King with Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins and Dáire Hughes MP.

Newry City Councillor Cathal King welcomed the ministers investment: “This initiative will help build capacity within the planning system, reduce delays and improve outcomes for communities, applicants and businesses.

“It is heartening to see the eleven new trainees begin their journey at Belfast Met, and I look forward to seeing the benefits this investment delivers for communities across the north.

“This initiative is being delivered in partnership with local councils, and we are delighted to be part of this exciting programme which is investing in people and the future of planning.

Councillor King concluded: “I commend Minister Kimmins for taking decisive action to address recruitment and retention challenges within planning. Her leadership and commitment to investing in people is exactly what is needed to strengthen the system and support those working within it.”

Chris Corken, Head of School of Science, Engineering and Construction at Belfast Met, welcomed the partnership approach. He said: "Belfast Met is delighted to play a central role in this innovative Trainee Planner Programme. This initiative reflects exactly what can be achieved through genuine collaboration between the Department for Infrastructure, local councils and further education. By investing in new talent, we are strengthening the future of the planning profession and supporting the wider construction and built environment sectors. I commend the Minister for her leadership and commitment to ensuring our trainees have the opportunity, skills and confidence to shape the places and communities of tomorrow."

Minister Kimmins congratulated the new recruits and wished them every success as they embark on their new career paths. She concluded by saying she hopes to work with councils on future initiatives and that this will be just the first of many trainee planner intakes ahead.