Rural Affairs Podcast

Is planning sexy? and, if not, should it be?Hosted by Martin Collett, Chief Executive of English Rural, the inaugural episode of the Rural Affairs Podcast takes a fresh, accessible look at England’s planning system, a topic often viewed as technical, jargon heavy and remote, but one that fundamentally shapes rural communities, landscapes and livelihoods.The episode brings together two leading voices with deep expertise in place, landscape and design: Matthew Rice, writer, designer and heritage expert, and Mary‑Ann Ochota,President of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE), broadcaster, anthropologist and countryside champion. Together, they explore how planning influences everything from housing and design quality to transport, energy infrastructure and community identity, and why it matters far more than many people realise.Introduction - 0:09Guest Introductions - 0:50The Point of Planning - 1:20Public Perception of Planning - 4:01Design and Vernacular - 5:44Challenges in Planning - 10:24Community Engagement - 19:36Prime Minister For a Day - 35:35Closing Thoughts - 52:40Conclusion - 54:27