Over 25 years in the industry, I’ve witnessed first-hand how significantly the environmental planning and approvals process has changed. However, one thing has remained constant: every development project carries uncertainty and risk. As a Town Planner and MD at Urban Perspectives, I help clients mitigate risks and reduce uncertainty. I act as their guide as they take their project to council, and my team helps prepare the necessary documents – from Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) to Review Environmental Factors (REF) and Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE).We help developers understand how to get their project over the line, as well as expected timeframes and costs. Our model allows us to fit into any team to work on an EIS and collaborate with clients to strategically plan, manage and carry out their development projects. We also help with the compliance side of the business and can set up management plans and carry out audits. We provide a full range of planning services that identify solutions to avoid, reduce and improve the sustainability outcome of various projects. Our services range from planning policy, community consultation and environmental impact assessments to environmental management services and audits. Motivated to continue innovating and improving our clients' development planning and approvals, we’ve created Urban Prospects. The online search engine makes it easy to find pre-vetted development sites in NSW. I also strive to continue improving the industry as a whole. This includes previously working with the Department of Planning and Environment on various planning policies and reforms and lecturing at the University of Sydney. Please connect with me here on LinkedIn or message me at stuart@urbanperspectives.com.au.