Are you interested in shaping the future of your places and communities? Why not sign up and join a panel of volunteers to help advise on the borough’s future development projects?
The borough’s community review panel is looking for new members, with applications open to anyone who wants to get involved – no experience is required, just a desire to take part.
Whether you are passionate about your neighbourhood, interested in design, sustainability and public spaces, or keen to have your voice heard, as a panel member, you’ll have the chance to contribute to designing local development proposals and planning projects.
The panel plays an important and independent role in local planning, with members meeting regularly to discuss projects. There are also opportunities to build knowledge and gain insight into topics like sustainability, through ongoing learning and development.
From new homes and transport to the borough’s green spaces and the environment, the panel reviews proposals submitted to Ealing Council. The insights they provide are formally reported, helping to inform design and formal applications before being submitted, and future decision making during the council’s planning process.
This ensures that new development is thoughtfully designed, high quality, and meets the needs of people living, working, visiting, and studying in the area – now and in the future.
‘Contributing to the place I call home’
One of the panel’s younger members is 25-year-old Dionne Bimpong (pictured right), who was appointed in 2023. Dionne is a Greenford resident and has always lived in the borough.
Dionne said: “Growing up in Ealing where my family has put down its roots, and coming from Ghanaian heritage, has given me a unique perspective on the borough’s social and cultural infrastructure. The community review panel stood out as an opportunity to actively take part in shaping its future.”
Since joining the panel, Dionne said she has encouraged designs that reflect the local character of the area and respond to the needs of existing communities. She also highlighted the importance of safety and accessibility.
“As a woman, I often questioned how developments considered lighting, routes, visibility and overall safety at night,” she said.
Reflecting on what she has gained from the experience, Dionne added: “The most rewarding aspect was seeing how panel input is formally integrated into the planning process. It gave me the chance to make valuable contributions to the place I call home, and ultimately shaped my career direction, marking my first step into the field.
“The monthly meetings are well organised and easy to engage with. There is no expectation to understand complex planning terminology – the focus is on your local perspective and lived experience.
“Young people are often underrepresented in planning discussions, yet they are among those most affected by long-term decisions, so I especially encourage them to get involved. It’s an opportunity to help shape the future of Ealing in a meaningful way.”
Get involved
Peter George, the council’s strategic director of economy and sustainability, said: “The community review panel is a vital way for residents to help shape how our borough grows and changes. By recruiting on a rolling basis, we can hear from a wider range of people and ensure the panel reflects the diversity of the borough. I encourage anyone with an interest in the future of the borough to find out more and apply.”
Anyone can apply aged 18 or over, and no previous experience of planning, architecture, or design is needed. The council especially wants to hear from younger people and those not already involved with a community group.
To find out more about the panel, and to apply, go to the council website.
