The shifting spatial contours of employment: evaluating the evolution of post-Covid strategic planning in England in response to third space and the flexible work mode

This article examines the spatial implications of flexible working post-Covid through the concepts of thirdspace and the flexible work model. Whilst research to date has largely focused on city centres, this article draws on a case study of a new settlement, Worcestershire Parkway, and the views of planning/property professionals to investigate the emerging implications for planning theory and practice. In particular, it highlights and critically evaluates the importance of flexibility and future-proofing, strong private sector partnership to develop employment strategies and design codes to set parameters for development as the cardinal features of post-Covid strategic planning practice.