What We Do › Free online training
Free online training
January – March 2026
This training programme offers a practical introduction to engaging with the planning system. It is designed for individuals and communities who want to participate more confidently in decisions that affect their local area, with a particular focus on renewable energy, community engagement and place-based planning.
Who is this training for?
The sessions are suitable for:
- community groups and organisations
- community councils
- individuals interested in local planning and place
- anyone wanting to better understand how planning decisions are made
No prior knowledge is required.
Training sessions included
The programme includes the following sessions:
- Understanding renewable energy and planning: Part 1 (Thu 15 Jan)
- Understanding renewable energy and planning: Part 2 (Thu 22 Jan)
- Local Place Plans: Knowing the essentials (Thu 15 Jan)
- Ask Away: Local Place Plans (Tue 20 Jan)
- How to create your project management plan (Wed 28 Jan)
- Online & engaged: Learn how to use Placecheck (Wed 11 Feb)
- How to analyse community feedback (Thu 12 Feb)
Additional sessions will be added in the new year, please keep an eye on our Eventbrite page for updates.
About this training series
This programme has been designed to give communities and individuals the confidence, skills and knowledge to play an active role in shaping their local area.
Through the sessions, you will learn:
- how to engage effectively with the planning system, particularly in relation to electricity and renewable energy applications
- where your voice fits within planning processes and how to make it count
- how to prepare strong community-led plans, including Local Place Plans and Community Action Plans
- practical community engagement skills, with sustainability and place at the heart of your approach
Each session is practical, accessible and grounded in real-world challenges.
Important information
All sessions will take place in early 2026. Sessions will be recorded, with recordings available to rewatch for three months after delivery
Early booking is strongly encouraged.
Please register for any sessions of interest and feel free to share this opportunity with your colleagues, networks and community contacts.
If you have any questions or accessibility requirements, please contact Anne Krippler, our Planning & Projects Officer, at anne@pas.org.uk.
Find the training that’s right for you
Explore the full training programme and book your place on Eventbrite.
