The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) has announced Dr Gaener Rodger as it’s new Convener of the Planning Committee.

Dr Gaener Rodger has been elected by postal ballot, taking 12 of the CNPA Board votes. She was appointed to the CNPA Board in 2018 and has a background in academic research, business development, professional training and working with young people. As an active outdoors woman, she is interested in conserving our wild places; promoting opportunities to enhance the mental and physical wellbeing of our population and empowering young people to be the future custodians of the Park. The other candidate to run was Peter Argyle, who remains as Vice Planning Convener.

Gaener Rodger replaces Eleanor Mackintosh who was in charge of the Planning Committee for eight years.

Commented on her new role with the Park Authority Gaener said: “I am delighted that my fellow board colleagues have seen fit to elect me to the role of Planning Committee Convener. This is a challenging role, trying to balance the protection of the Park’s important habitats and landscapes with the need to ensure that there are opportunities for people to live and work here.”

“I realise I have some very big shoes to fill with Eleanor having led the planning committee for many years for which she is hugely respected by fellow board members, staff, applicants and partners.”

Xander McDade, CNPA Board Convener congratulated Gaener Rodger on her new position saying: “Gaener brings a great deal of experience to the role of Planning Convener from her experience in other Board roles and from being an active participant in committee meetings for the past two years. I look forward to working with her over the coming years to continue ensuring we have a Park for all. I wish her every success in her new role.”

Gaener Rodger will chair her first Planning Committee on 22 January 2021.

ENDS