Rebecca (Becky) joined ECE Planning as a Planning Technician in 2015 from previous employment at Fowlers Estate Agents. Rebecca gained her Masters Degree in Planning in 2019 and was subsequently elected as a Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute in August 2021. Rebecca was promoted to Senior Planner in April 2021.

What inspired you to be a Planner?

When I came for the interview at ECE Planning, I was fresh out of school. I was incredibly intrigued by the job and knew I wanted to pursue the role as a career. My only question was whether the job was for a Wedding Planner or a Party Planner…

The hard work started when I found out it was a Town and Country Planning Practice! I have embraced the role ever since and found a real passion for the industry which my family are all very much involved in.

What achievement are you most proud of?

I would say that I am most proud of gaining a Distinction in my Masters and being elected as a Chartered Member of the RTPI in 2021.

As someone who did not do particularly well at school with barely a qualification to my name, I have worked incredibly hard to undertake a Masters whilst working full time.

During my time at ECE I have progressed from a Planning Technician to my Senior role today with the support of my colleagues in the Planning team who have been behind me every step of the way. For that I am so proud of myself!

Knowing what you do now, what advice would you give to your younger self while you were training to become a Planner?

I would tell my younger self to enjoy the process, no matter how hard it gets! I would also tell myself that it is ok to step outside of my comfort zone and to go for it!

What has been your favourite project to work on?

I have a few favorite projects but the most memorable (and one which really tested my knowledge) was for a private client who wanted to build a private dwelling within the grounds of their business, a rural livery yard.

It was really interesting to work on a project which had so many factors to consider and legislation to comply with, in order to demonstrate that the dwelling was truly needed, for equestrian purposes.

The application was subsequently approved after extensive negotiations and a lot of hard work. I am proud to have worked on such a meaningful project which ultimately improved the animal welfare by having the Applicants present on-site at all times.

How do you relax outside of work?

I have developed a real passion for exercise and am fortunate to live within such close proximity to the South Downs and the sea where you will find me either exploring the Downs with my dog or sipping a G&T on the beach with friends!

Who would be your dream dinner party guests?

My dream dinner guests would be my Grandad who sadly passed away before I was born. He had an incredibly interesting life, serving in the Special Forces and I would have loved to hear his stories first hand.

I would also invite David Attenborough as, again, his stories and knowledge would be fascinating and I am passionate about the environment.