Alumni return to Cardiff to celebrate 60 years of Town Planning

3 November 2026

Sixty years after beginning their studies at Cardiff, a group of Town Planning alumni returned to the University.

Celebrating six decades of friendship and professional achievements, the reunion brought former classmates together, many of whom had not visited Cardiff for some time. Returning to the city provided an opportunity to reflect on their student days and see how both Cardiff and the planning profession have evolved since they graduated.

During the weekend, alumni enjoyed spending time with Dr Brian Webb and colleagues from the School, as well as Simon Gilbert, Head of Planning at Cardiff Council. The group also gathered for a reunion meal at Elgano restaurant, where memories of student life, academic experiences and successful careers in planning and related fields were shared.

Vic Brown (BSc 1970), who organised the reunion, said:

“It was a huge pleasure to return to Cardiff, even in diminished numbers. It is a beautiful ‘green’ city which doubtless contributed greatly to our memories of its people, place and community. We remember, as ever, those of the ‘Class of 66’ no longer with us and the contributions which the university staff of that time (1966-71) made to our lives.”

The visit also offered alumni the chance to learn more about the School's current activities and its role in educating future planners. Reflecting on the experience, the group expressed their appreciation for the warm welcome they received and their confidence in the future of planning education at Cardiff. Vic added:

“Our good wishes go to Brian and Simon as they work hard to stimulate, educate and promote the next generation of planners for the coming decades. Universities are facing challenging times, but there is clearly a strong team, with enthusiasm and vision, who have the expertise and energy required to maintain and develop Cardiff's position as the premier planning school in Wales, if not the UK.”

As the reunion drew to a close, alumni reflected on the lasting impact of their time at Cardiff and the enduring friendships formed during their studies.

Alum Gareth Jones (BSc 1969) captured highlights from the weekend in this video, featuring reflections from graduates, staff and friends of the School as they celebrated its 60th anniversary.