Event details
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DHA Planning, Maidstone
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11 November 2025
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06:45 PM - 09:30 PM BST
Event fees
Free
£25.00
£5.00
Summary
From Planning Reform and Policy Overview to Strategic Implementation and Habitat Bank Opportunities
Please note: this event is for over 18’s only.
This CPD will be provided by 2 experts in their fields. Matthew Blythin, Director at DHA Planning and Amy Wright, Principal Ecologist at Native Ecology.
Matthew will be providing a Planning Update - Genuine Reform?
His session will provide an overview and update on recent and proposed changes to the planning system and related legislation in the context of the Government’s drive to significantly boost housebuilding and infrastructure delivery.
Amy will then follow with her presentation providing an overview of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) so far, including habitat banks, and then how a developer can acheive the most from BNG.
A cold buffet will be served prior to the presentations.
Please note: this event is for over 18’s only
Members: gain 3 CIOB CPD points when you reflect on the ethical aspects of your learning from this activity.
Contact
Beverley Lawrence
Member Services and Events Coordinator - Maidstone
+44 (0) 1344 630861
+44 (0) 7827 920601
Our Speakers
Matthew Blythin
Director
Mathew joined DHA as one of our original graduate intake in 2004. He has a Masters in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Westminster, having previously studied Geography at the University of Birmingham.
In his time at DHA, Matthew has worked on a wide variety of projects across all sectors including large scale estate regenerations, rural housing, Local Authority infrastructure projects and industrial schemes. He has also appeared as expert planning witness on behalf of clients at Public Inquiries.
Although working across all sectors and with a wide range of experience in his time at DHA, Matthew leads our education team and has overseen many applications which have secured permission for new schools and replacement school buildings across the country. He also has particular experience working with contractor and local authority clients on leisure and infrastructure projects, including new leisure centres and multi-storey car parks.
Amy Wright
Principal Ecologist
Amy is a Chartered Ecologist with over 15 years of experience in ecological consultancy, bringing an in-depth understanding of UK/EU wildlife legislation and policy, coupled with a significant focus on achieving and maximising Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG).
Amy is passionate about sharing her extensive knowledge and practical insights, having presented widely to diverse audiences on navigating and implementing effective BNG strategies.
CIOB Maidstone
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