In this blog, we meet David Martin, a volunteer who has been invaluable in helping us develop content for our Graduate Training Scheme which aims to bridge the gap between graduating university and starting a career in planning, sharing the experience of current planners and providing interactive training on key topics.

David is passionate about playing an active role in his community and got into planning to help create wonderful places. Read on to hear about his experience!

Tell us a bit about yourself

I come from Scotland, and I have lived in Broughty Ferry and later Monifieth. Living in these wonderful places made me want to be a part of how we make “wonderful” places.

I studied Architecture at College, later studying two planning degrees, an undergraduate and a masters. Studying in Dundee through 2016–2021 was an exciting time, Dundee was a city finding itself again. To be studying planning around that time felt like you were living in an era of transformation and my course, planning, was a catalyst for that change.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I like helping people and playing a role in the community either through volunteering or just asking people about their day, never underestimate how much help you can provide someone by just asking how they are. One way I go about helping the community is by volunteering for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, which was set up to care for the graves of fallen servicemen and women from world wars and other conflicts. I feel a deep sense of pride tending to these sites and looking after the graves of our veterans.

I also enjoy looking at research pieces related to planning, green/blue infrastructure, methods of improving the well-being of living things and widening my understanding of the planning system like NPF4. I do this because it keeps me up to date and informed on the latest developments in planning and because it’s cool. Other than that, I walk (with my dog if he actually moves), read books and go to the gym!

How did you get involved with Planning Aid Scotland?

I found out about Planning Aid Scotland from a speaker we had at university, and I got involved because of my shift from academic learning to development management planning office work. I felt there was a gap between what you learn at university and what you do in the office, and wanted to help create something that can help graduates gain a better insight into the world of working in planning.

What has been your favourite experience as a volunteer?

Working with the Planning Aid Scotland team has been my favourite experience, the people that are volunteering or working for them are honestly some of the best people I have met. The levels of understanding, help and openness to what you are telling them makes them one of the best charities going. I am a person who lives with learning difficulties and to be given that space to grow as a person and a planner, I’m really grateful to Planning Aid Scotland.

Any top tips you’ve learnt from volunteering with Planning Aid Scotland?

I have learned more ways to be confident with myself regarding planning and just life in general, how to be a better communicator and strengthen my knowledge of planning. I feel like I have gained skills for creating educational pieces, articulating good responses to questions related to planning, and providing advice to people on how to progress with their planning careers.

What do you find inspiring about planning in Scotland?

I find the people involved in planning to be the most inspiring thing about planning. From chief planners, to team leaders, to planning officers, to planning technicians and the supporting administrative staff (admin are the unsung heroes of the planning office), they all have the same values of caring for the public and the built/natural environments.

Any fun facts about planning?

• Nobody likes looking at ‘class 67 development by electronic communications code operators’.
• Planning is vast, with many different roles related to planning.
• You are constantly improving as a professional.
• Planning at times is less about what you know on the spot, but more where to find the correct information later to inform your decision.

We want to hear from you! If you’re interested in doing a profile for our blog, please get in touch with Jo.