Session
Roger Mortlock joined CPRE (The Countryside Charity) as chief executive in May 2023 and is responsible for the overall running of the organisation. He joined following 10 years as chief executive of the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, and leadership roles at the Soil Association and the Royal Shakespeare Company. He is passionate about a more sustainable future for rural England and CPRE’s role in finding solutions which make the best use of land and safeguard the countryside. He has held non-executive roles with the Bat Conservation Trust and the Soil Association Land Trust and is currently a trustee with the Summerfield Charitable Trust.
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.
Robbie Calvert is the head of policy and public affairs at the Royal Town Planning Institute, where he leads the development of strategic policy positions, practice guidance and research to advance the planning profession and influence national and local planning policy. With a strong background in planning policy, governance and evidence‑based practice, Robbie works closely with members, government, partners and stakeholders to shape debates on planning reform, placemaking, housing delivery and sustainable development. His role encompasses leadership on policy interpretation, practice standards and engagement with the wider built and natural environment sectors to ensure planning remains effective, equitable and responsive to contemporary challenges.
