We were honoured to formally welcome Sarah Boyack as our new Patron at our Annual General Meeting on 28 October 2026.

She brings extensive experience in planning, public policy, environmental sustainability and local government.

Speaking about her new role, Sarah said:

“I am delighted to become a Patron of Planning Aid Scotland and look forward to supporting the excellent work delivered in our communities.”

A career rooted in planning

Sarah began her professional career in town planning after completing a postgraduate Diploma in Town and Country Planning at Edinburgh College of Art, which offered planning courses in partnership with Heriot-Watt University, following a degree in Modern History and Politics at the University of Glasgow.

She worked as a town planner in London before moving into strategic planning with Central Regional Council in Stirling. She subsequently became a lecturer in planning at Heriot-Watt University and served as Convener of the Scottish Branch of the Royal Town Planning Institute in 1997.

Sarah was first elected to the Scottish Parliament in 1999, at its inception, and went on to serve as Minister with responsibility for planning, transport and environment during its formative years.

During her parliamentary career, she held ministerial and spokesperson roles covering the environment, rural development, local government, climate change, energy and net zero.

Between her periods in Parliament, Sarah also worked as Head of Public Affairs at the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations, contributing to policy and advocacy on housing issues.

A longstanding supporter of Planning Aid Scotland

Sarah has supported Planning Aid Scotland’s work for many years, helping to raise awareness of the importance of accessible planning advice and meaningful public participation.

In October 2023, she lodged a motion in the Scottish Parliament recognising Planning Aid Scotland’s 30th anniversary and the contribution of its network of specialist volunteers. The motion acknowledged the charity’s commitment to inclusive participation, supporting people to shape their own places and addressing climate change through the planning system.

In May 2024, Sarah hosted and sponsored our 30th anniversary reception at the Scottish Parliament, bringing together volunteers, partners and supporters to mark this milestone.

Looking ahead

Welcoming Sarah’s appointment, Cherie Morgan, Chief Executive of Planning Aid Scotland, said:

“Sarah brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and keen vision of the purpose of planning in Scotland. We are looking forward to working with her to extend our reach and to ensure that communities are empowered to shape decisions about their place.”

Through our Advice Service, training programmes, community engagement and volunteering, we help people gain the knowledge and confidence to participate in planning decisions affecting their local places.

We look forward to working with Sarah to build on this work and encourage greater public participation in planning.