CIHT is one of four institutions that support the Transport Planning Society, and as a past chair of the Society it’s a delight to see this part of our profession receive greater recognition. The People’s Award in particular is a timely reminder of the importance of remembering that what we do as professionals shapes the future of places.

It is increasingly clear that in looking to the square the circle between creating opportunities for greater prosperity and reducing transport’s environmental impact, we need to change the business model: business as usual will fail not only our existing residents and businesses but potentially stymie the ability for new businesses to flourish.

Earlier this year the CIHT published ‘Better Planning, Better Transport, Better Places’ to show how it is possible to make a difference here and now. We need to keep reminding ourselves that small changes can often have significant benefits, and that the benefits of local changes often spread much wider like ripples on the surface of a lake.

Transport Planning Day itself this year coincides with the next meeting of CIHT’s Council and I wish everyone involved in the day’s celebrations all the very best.