RTPI President Visits New Lubbesthorpe and Leicestershire Flagship Projects

Mather Jamie was proud to be part of a special visit by Helen Fadipe, President of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), who recently toured projects across Leicestershire, including the award-winning New Lubbesthorpe development.

The day began at New Lubbesthorpe, where Helen heard from Mather Jamie Consultant, Martin Ward, alongside Jacqueline Jackson of Marrons and Sue Steer from the community group, Lubbesthorpe Alive.

Discussions focused on the challenges and opportunities that come with delivering a new settlement of this scale, including the construction of a bridge over the M1 motorway to connect communities.

What stood out most during the visit was the landowner Trust’s dedication and passion for creating a strong, sustainable, and cohesive community. This ethos sits at the very heart of New Lubbesthorpe, and the results are clear to see when walking around the development.

The scheme has quickly become a benchmark for best practice in placemaking, balancing housing growth with community spirit, green spaces, and high-quality infrastructure.

In the afternoon, the group visited Everards of Leicestershire, gaining insight into the company’s long history in the region and its strong commitment to regeneration and investment. A highlight of this session was a presentation from Matthew Branton of Franklin Ellis Architects, who explained the evolution of the Everards Meadows project and the wider role it plays in supporting local business and leisure.

Speaking about the visit, Martin Ward said “It was a privilege to showcase New Lubbesthorpe to the RTPI President. This project demonstrates what can be achieved when landowners, planners, and communities work in close partnership. Seeing it recognised at this level is a proud moment for everyone involved.”

The visit not only celebrated the innovation and collaboration behind New Lubbesthorpe but also highlighted the importance of long-term vision and investment in shaping Leicestershire’s future communities.