At this time there is a storm of change. Zero carbon affects design, construction, use of materials, power and cost. Revised planning system in terms of new National Planning Framework will also affect development. As will efforts to revitalise town centres and make them places to congregate rather than just shop, There is also emphasis on locally available shops and facilities together with a need to design or adapt neighbourhoods to reflect better and healthy environments in which to live.

These all require an upgrade in understanding and the information and learning processes are more important than ever. It is also evident that other professions such as planning and landscape are encountering their own requirements to tackle these problems.

My proposals are to improve the circulation of information to keep members connected with the latest thinking and also establish links with other professions to share experience and learn from one another. I would intend to do this by continuing to use virtual media which facilitates a greater spread and availability for members.

To help me achieve these aims I am fortunate to have a widely-based academic, professional and practical background which encompasses urban renewal, physical planning, development, conservation, business development, property management, the environment, strategic and project management, and administration.

Although I have now transferred my professional memberships to their retired category I am still up to date and retiral means that I can spend more time in advancing the GIA membership than I could if still in employment, which is an advantage for the GIA.

I am honoured to have been asked to stand for the GIA presidency.

GIA is the largest Chapter of RIAS, and covers a wide geographical area. My practice has offices across the chapter, in Ayr, Dumfries and Glasgow.

As Senior Partner I am involved in the daily realities, inspiration, challenges and variety of working across the region, encompassing urban, rural, coastal, and island locations.

I have been involved with GIA Council and Committees at various times, on Council 1998-99, Housing Committee 2004, and Conservation & Sustainability Committee 2010-2013. When on Council in 1998 I arranged the creation of the first GIA website and for my practice to host this on behalf of GIA to promote the work of the Institute online.

As a Chartered Architect working in the West of Scotland for 30 years, I have experienced the technological development from Rapidograph pen and tracing paper to full computerisation and BIM, and the need for the profession to stay at the forefront of technology while dealing with the demands of everyday practice.

GIA Council and Committees are essential to this, and have a history of vibrant and enthusiastic members giving their time to support and promote the profession. We are fortunate to have a keen and committed membership and I will harness that energy and creativity.

As a “country practice” which has grown to deliver projects across Scotland, the UK, Channel Islands and now our first steps into Europe, I bring a UK perspective and wide experience of Professional Practice. This is essential in today’s professional environment.

Net Zero is now a clear target for the profession, requested by many clients, but with no definitive mechanism for how it should be measured. Strategies for reducing energy use and fuel poverty, particularly for the poorest in this inflationary period, and moving to Net Zero will be a priority for the Institute. I became a Certified European Passivhaus Designer in 2015 to design energy-efficient buildings with predictable, measurable performance. Through Passivhaus projects of gradually increasing size I have delivered Certified Passive Houses in Dumfries. A current flatted Passivhaus project in Glasgow will be the largest to date in Scotland, giving benefits of reduced energy use, improved indoor air quality, and the opportunity to learn from actual performance in use so that such developments can continually improve.

Education of future architects is important. I have tutored at Strathclyde University with David Page, Sandy Stoddard and Professor Frank Walker, who illustrate the essential combination of inspiration and learnedness. My practice trains graduates and supports them to their Part 3 exam. It is a pleasure to see new architects joining the profession, bringing new perspectives and thriving.

GIA represents practices of all sizes, who deal with a wide variety of clients, project types and sizes. My experience reflects that, from small-scale rural domestic projects to large multi-use masterplans, and I understand the challenges and needs of the membership.

I would be very proud to be elected as president to represent all members of the GIA.