Why is this necessary?

The role of officers and designers will radically change in the near future as national and local planning policies are progressing towards a more inclusive and open planning system, with significantly increased community involvement and empowerment. Emerging national policy will soon put community engagement at the heart of the planning process, at all stages of design.

These changes will require skilled staff that can deliver frameworks and provide training for local authorities, developers, designers and communities. You could become part of that workforce.