Rural Affairs Podcast

Is Planning Sexy?

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 - 0:09 Guest Introductions - 0:50 The Point of Planning - 1:20 Public Perception of Planning - 4:01 Design and Vernacular - 5:44 Challenges in Planning - 10:24 Community Engagement - 19:36 Prime Minister For a Day - 35:35 Closing Thoughts - 52:40 Conclusion - 54:27