Mike Davies is incorrect to say that the Royal Town Planning Institute has “inevitably created an academic closed shop that has contributed to the shortage of qualified planners” (17 October, page 32).

The RTPI has been working to increase the supply of planners through, for example, new intensively delivered masters’ degrees and the accreditation of new planning schools. As a result, there has been a significant growth in students entering the profession.

However not all practitioners enter the profession via accredited planning courses. The RTPI’s associate membership category – a partial professional qualification – recognises the contribution of a range of built environment professionals. The RTPI is currently working to develop its associate route to chartered membership.

The RTPI has to balance recognition of the important input of a range of professionals with the maintenance of chartered status as a meaningful professional qualification.

Sue Percy, director of membership, education and lifelong learning, RTPI

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