Revealing its autumn 2025 cohort today (2 December), the non-profit organisation named the 22 people to be placed with local authorities across England over the next year.

They include former Barr Gazetas architect Derin Fadina – also a contributing writer to the AJ; POoR Collective co-founder Ben Spry; senior architect and certified Passivhaus designer Amy Nestorowytsch; Laura Heykoop, who has worked with the United Nations around the world; and Building Design’s architectural editor Ben Flatman.

Public Practice will place the latest group with 20 local authorities across England, including, for the first time, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, Cheshire East Council and Cheshire West and Chester Council.

Their roles will focus on planning policy, regeneration and urban design, which Public Practice says respond to ‘government priorities’ such as delivering new homes. 

Since its launch in 2017, Public Practice has placed 398 associates at 102 authorities in England, 70 per cent of whom continued to work in the public sector for more than two years after their 12-month placement ended.

Public Practice chief executive Pooja Agrawal said: ‘This cohort marks a significant moment for Public Practice and for local government. We’re proud to have supported over 100 authorities in accessing the skills they need to deliver better, fairer, and more sustainable places.  

‘But our work does not stop here. The capacity and skills crisis facing local government is critical and ongoing. We welcome the autumn Budget announcements, including additional measures and new funding for planners, which will support the delivery of new housing.

‘As always, our focus is on quality and longevity, and we continue to work hard to bring in more multidisciplinary skills to strengthen local government teams and deliver the homes our communities are calling out for.’

News of the latest cohort comes not long after Public Practice warned of a recruitment crisis in the planning system, leaving teams unable to exceed their ‘minimum’ duties.

A survey carried out by the organisation revealed a 73 per cent drop in planned recruitment among local planning and placemaking departments compared with 2022 – falling from 6.14 roles per team to 1.66. Its report warned that the ‘mismatch’ in planned recruitment between separate local authority departments would increase the skills gap at a time of increasing demand for new homes and infrastructure.

If you’re seeking a senior-level role in the public sector, you can join Public Practice’s jobs board mailing list. If you’re an authority looking to advertise a role, you can find more information here or visit the Public Practice website.