Event Review: Online Roundtable with Simon Hoare MP, former Minister for Local Government

SP Broadway were delighted to welcome Simon Hoare MP for North Dorset and Former Minister for Local Government, as the guest speaker for our latest online Politics of Planning roundtable.

Attendees from Savills, Richborough, Hallam and Vistry, among others, all contributed to the discussion. Topics covered included called in decisions, the upcoming Planning and Infrastructure Bill, and the importance of Strategic Planning.

Simon gave an overview of his time at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, highlighting specific ‘called in’ decisions he had made on behalf of the Secretary of State, as well as discussing elements of the decision-making process more generally. Additionally, Simon spoke about his role as MP for North Dorset, and the interest he takes on projects within his constituency.

There was discussion about local government reforms, public consultations and the skills shortage within the planning and construction industries. Conversations about topics such as mains water, electricity provision and viability, as well as the role of ‘Quangos’, were also informative for guests.

Our thanks to Simon and guests for attending and contributing to such an interesting discussion. Our next online roundtable will be with Andrew Taylor FRTPI, Group Planning Director at Vistry Group, on Tuesday 10 June 2025.

If you would like to attend any of our forthcoming events, please email jamie@spbroadway.com