Discover creative routes and proven strategies to get your plan over the line.
When the government came to power in 2024, it pledged to keep the hugely successful tool of neighbourhood planning, only to cut most of the funding in 2025.
So where does that leave parish and town councils with plans in progress, or those looking to renew theirs? Have the doors closed… or are there still pathways forward?
Join this practical and inspiring event where you’ll:
Don’t let funding cuts stall your vision. Neighbourhood planning can still shape your community’s future, and this event will show you how.
NB: NALC reserves the right to change the programme at any time.


Neighbourhood planning, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government


Clerk, Penzance Town Council
James Hardy is the town clerk at Penzance Town Council and received the Clerk of the Year award at the Star Council Awards 2024. He was recognised for his outstanding leadership, public service and commitment to community engagement. Since joining Penzance Town Council, James has led a strong public service-focused team and championed accessible local government. He has played a key role in projects that improve community facilities, support local organisations, and enhance public services, helping rebuild trust in local democracy and strengthen connections between the council and the community. He is passionate about the role of local councils in creating thriving, resilient communities and ensuring that residents remain at the heart of local decision-making.

Neighbourhood planning, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Karla Johnson is a planning professional at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), specialising in neighbourhood planning and community-led place-making. As a Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute, she brings expertise in planning policy, stakeholder engagement and supporting communities to shape the future of their local areas. At MHCLG, Karla works on neighbourhood planning policy and programmes that empower local people to influence development, regeneration and long-term place-making within their communities.

Planning advisor, Society of Local Council Clerks
Andrew Towlerton is a qualified planner with over 30 years’ experience across the public and private sectors, including senior leadership roles, and is widely recognised for his expertise in local government and community planning. He serves as the national planning advisor to the Society of Local Council Clerks. Andrew previously held the role of assistant director at a district council, where he managed planning, housing, consultation and community involvement services. He is also a clerk to Ecclesfield Parish Council.
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