In this whirlwind episode of Planning After Dark, the PAD Pod Girls return with stories from across the planning universe, from South African sustainability summits to strategic planning in Glasgow, and even a Surrey conference where teenagers declare the county “for old people.”

Alex brings sunshine, steak and an 8:30am hangover from her trip to South Africa, Cartriona reflects on the joys (and accents) of planning back in Scotland, and Jackie battles through rail summits, parliamentary receptions and a national mood flatter than a stalled housing market.

Together they take on the big beasts:

•  Decarbonising ageing homes and the new Homes Without Harm report
•  The eternal agony of land value capture (“45 years of pain!”)
•  Local government reform and the fear of doom loops
•  Planning reform ping-pong between Commons and Lords
•  Devolution power plays, Burnham’s billion-pound boldness & tourism taxes
•  The Hokey Cokey Budget and a sector desperate for something - anything - to lift

There’s praise for unsung heroes (hello, Matt Pennycook), a shout-out to the Nicky Gavron Memorial Award, and a teaser for the Christmas special featuring an all-male lineup brave enough to face the PAD Pod Girls.

It’s half therapy session, half planning masterclass, with a lot of laughs and plenty of straight-talking commentary - just what thousands of loyal listeners keep coming back for. Onwards and upwards!

Get in touch! Message us at ask@planningafterdark.co.uk

Planning After Darkis the bold and insightful podcast where three powerhouse women in planning and development - Alex Notay, Catriona Riddell, and Jackie Sadek - shine a light on the industry’s biggest challenges, trends, and, yes, even a bit of behind-the-scenes gossip.

From navigating the complexities of development to debating the future of our cities, Planning After Dark is the no-holds-barred discussion you won’t want to miss.

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