Message from the Chair: Happy new year 2021!

Happy new year! I hope you had a relaxing Christmas holiday break, but so much for a happy ‘new normal’ new year… I just hope you are not too badly affected by the new lockdown and the latest Covid spike. I must admit I found getting back to work(ing from home) and a routine helpful to take my mind off the news.

To help you feel positive about this year, why not consider your professional development and getting more involved with the Transport Planning Society? Yeah, I thought that would get you excited!

The new year is always a good time to take stock and set new goals and resolutions. And we have all the schemes and qualifications you need to develop your career, whatever stage you are at. This could include starting, or perhaps completing, the Professional Development Scheme. It might mean making progress on your Transport Planning Professional qualification. Or just look out for our range of great events this year to record as CPD. You can check out our Skills pages  on the website for more details, or discuss with your TPS Regional Rep or PDS/TPP coordinator in your organisation.

Also, if you want to see even more activity from your Society then why not join us and share your ideas and enthusiasm? We have some great opportunities to get involved in the running of the TPS. For example you could support your Regional Rep organise local events and activities in your area.

Alternatively, you should have received an email from us this week featuring our Call for Elected Directors to the TPS Board. This is a great chance to become part of the leadership team for the Society and work with other great people on the Board to keep the Society running smoothly and ensure we provide a great service to all our members. It’s also a good way to meet new people, develop your career, and connect with our stakeholder partners.

There’s even an opportunity to be nominated for my job and become Chair of the TPS ! My term sadly ends in mid-March and we need a replacement, so if you fancy running the show then I say go for it – I have found it a really rewarding and enjoyable experience. 

If none of that’s for you then don’t worry, just sit back and relax, read all the latest news stories  on our website and sign up and log in for our online events from the comfort of your lockdown living room. And our first one is unmissable, on ‘Roads v Rail: Reducing carbon emissions by 2030’ on 28 January – keep an eye on the events page for full details to be released shortly.

Here’s to a great 2021 for transport planning.

Stephen Bennett

Chair, Transport Planning Society