“So many people find the planning system frustrating and hard to navigate.”

With ILM Conference 2026 fast approaching, over the next few weeks, we will be sharing a bit more about what you can expect from the day, with insights from our esteemed speakers, who will be sharing details of their sessions.

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This week, we caught up with Andrew Tompson and Freya Carroll of Berrys who will be providing a property jargon busting masterclass with their session, ‘Making Sense of the Buzzwords: What do the Words Mean and How do They Affect Value?’

“This session will give a clear and practical overview of the jargon and technical phrases that often make it confusing when navigating the planning process.” Says Andrew.

“We’ll explain what common planning terms actually mean in plain English and how policy can be interpreted in real life. We’ll also touch on how misunderstandings can cause delays or reduce value, and why getting the right advice at the right time can make a big difference.”

“We selected this topic because so many people find the planning system frustrating and hard to navigate. A lot of that comes down to the language used and how policies are written and applied. If you’re not dealing with planning every day, it can be difficult to know what’s important and relevant and what isn’t.”

Andrew says he hopes the key take away for delegates will be a better understanding of planning terminology, and current issues and intricacies. “Members will have a clearer idea of where risks usually sit and how early advice can help avoid problems and also increase value,” he says.

About the Speakers

Freya Carroll: I am a Charted Town Planner at Berrys and support landowners and charities through the planning process. I I was previously a planner within a local authority. My experience includes managing planning applications, advising on site strategy, interpreting policy and negotiating with local authorities. I deal with these issues daily, so the session is based on practical experience of what works, what doesn’t, and where value can be gained or lost.

Andrew Tompson: I head up the valuation advisory team at Berrys and am often asked to comment on potential for development when undertaking Charites Act/DAR reports.

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Have you booked your ticket?

ILM Conference 2026 | Friday 8th May | 133 Houndsditch, London

As the biggest Legacy event in the calendar, the ILM Conference brings together the greatest minds across the full breadth of legacy related fields, to provide expert insights and share best practice for an unmissable day of learning and networking.

If you haven’t yet booked your tickets for Conference 2026, you’ll need to be quick as tickets are selling fast!

Book Now