Our
Team
Emery Planning is made up of a team of 32 across two offices in Macclesfield and Chester. The consultants have vast experience of the planning system from both local government and private practice perspectives. The team comprises chartered town planners with extensive experience in the public and private sectors. We draw upon a network of other professionals involved in development to provide a multi-disciplinary team.
Stephen Harris
BSc (Hons) MRTPI
Joint Managing Director
Stephen has experience of an extensive range of planning matters across the North West, but also across the country; in particular Wiltshire, Devon and Cornwall. He has appeared as an expert planning witness at numerous Section 78 appeals and Examinations in Public for major residential and mixed-use developments.
Stephen’s work includes the preparation of pre-application advice and reports incorporating development briefs, the assessment of development sites and their potential, preparation of planning application submissions, liaising and negotiating with planning authorities, and appeal work.
Caroline Payne
BA (Hons) Dip TP MRTPI PIEMA
Joint Managing Director
I graduated from the University of Sheffield in 2000 with a first in Urban Studies and Planning and Diploma in Town and Country Planning. Having worked part time in consultancy during my time in Sheffield, my post-graduate career began in development management in Staffordshire. I then moved into private practice in Manchester where I focused primarily on retail planning. I started work at Emery Planning as a consultant in August 2003 and knew I had found my forever home!
Like the rest of the Emery team, my case load is extremely varied and I work on applications across a range of sectors including residential, retail, commercial and education. Our range of work includes undertaking site appraisals and advising on comprehensive planning strategies, co-ordinating pre-application enquiries, planning applications, certificates of lawfulness and leading planning and enforcement appeals. As a Practitioner Member of the Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals I have managed a number of Environmental Impact Assessments and associated Screening and Scoping requests over the years. I also get involved in the strategic promotion of sites through the Local Plan process, preparing both representations and evidence. I have a particular interest in proposals involving heritage assets.
Outside of work, I am a busy mum of two and enjoy running in the Peak District with our Labrador, Lulu.
Rawdon Gascoigne
BA (Hons) MTCP MRTPI
Joint Managing Director
Rawdon has extensive planning experience across a diverse range of nationally based planning majtters. Rawdon’s experience on enforcement and conservation issues enables a constructive approach, particularly when dealing with historic buildings and protected environments.
Rawdon’s expertise includes conflict resolution in enforcement matters, representations at appeal, including expert advice at Public and Development Plan Inquiries, and the assessment of development sites and their potential in the commercial, retail, tourism and leisure sectors.
Ben Pycroft
BA (Hons) Dip TP MRTPI
Senior Director
I am a Director of Emery Planning, having joined the company in May 2011. Prior to that, I worked at BNP Paribas (formerly Atisreal) as a planning consultant and at 4NW, the former Regional Assembly for the North West.
I specialise in advising strategic land companies, house builders and other developers on housing land supply. I have prepared and presented evidence at more than 100 public inquiries, hearings and local plan examinations on this subject. I also regularly prepare desk-based assessments on housing land supply to inform strategies and support planning applications and appeals.
Outside of work, I enjoy travelling, good food, fantasy football and making pizza.
John Coxon
BSc (Hons) MPlan MRTPI
Senior Director
John joined Emery Planning in 2008, and has a wide range of experience in planning matters across England and Wales. He has appeared at numerous Local Plan Examinations and as an expert planning witness at Section 78 appeals.j
John’s experience includes: advising upon and promoting major residential developments, commercial and mixed-use developments, Green Belt matters, and the development potential of sites and planning strategy. He also works on promoting sites through the Local Plan process, preparing planning application submissions, liaising and negotiating with planning authorities, and work on planning appeals.
Emma Bennion
BSc (Hons) CIM Dip M
Operations Director
With an extensive background in marketing and business management, as Operations Director, Emma plays a pivotal role in the operation of Emery Planning.
Gareth Salthouse
BA (Hons) MPlan MRTPI
Director
I started my planning career in 2007 at Oldham Council in Development Management and graduated from the University of Manchester with a Masters in Planning in 2009 having studied part-time. I worked in local government for 6 years before leaving for the private sector and joined Emery Planning in 2014. I became a Chartered Member of the RTPI in 2010 and have around 18 years’ experience in local government and the private sector.
Since joining Emery Planning, I have worked on a very wide range of projects in different parts of the country in relation to planning applications, appeals, site appraisals, advising on comprehensive planning strategies and promoting sites through the local plan process. I am able to draw upon extensive experience of working in both the public and commercial sectors when advising clients and resolving complex planning issues.
Before embarking on a planning career, I was an English Teacher at a school in South Korea and spent time backpacking around parts of Asia and South America. Outside of work I am now mostly walking or running in the Peak District, watching my daughters play football at the weekends and trying to find time to watch Blackpool FC.”
Helen Leggett
BSc (Hons) MSc MRTPI
Associate Director
Having started her career with a good grounding in local government development manjagement, Helen joined Emery Planning in 2006 and since then has played a key role in our general planning service.
Helen has responsibility for the co-ordination and project management of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and preparation of Environmental Statements. Her work also includes undertaking community consultations in respect of major development proposals.
Helen has extensive experience successfully negotiating with local authorities and consultees on a range of projects, including work on conditions and legal agreements. She also has experience of successfully representing clients at appeal.
Jill Naylor
BA (Hons) BPI MRTPI
Associate Director
I joined Emery Planning in 2006 and has extensive experience in both the public and private sectors.
Her areas of expertise include countryside issues, particularly in Green Belt; residential development, both householder and new-build; the residential care sector; crematoria; and leisure development.
Jill adopts a tactical and innovative approach to policy interpretation to maximise development potential, whilst ensuring her clients have realistic expectations. She is a strong negotiator on all types of planning applications, certificates of lawfulness, enforcement cases, listed building and conservation area development, and prior approvals. Jill’s experience extends to all types of appeal procedures from written representations through to public inquiries.
In her spare time, Jill enjoys, amongst other things, herding cats (only two); playing badminton; watching the mighty blues; travel; and gardening (with the help of the cats).
Nick Smith
BSc (Hons) Dip TP MRTPI
Associate Director
I graduated from Oxford Brookes University in 1999 with a degree in Planning Studies. I worked in local authority for 4 years and gained a post graduate diploma from Oxford Brookes University before joining Emery Planning in November 2004.
My case load is extremely varied working on variety of residential and commercial developments including those within the urban area, Green Belt/open countryside and the historic environment. In my work I liaise with a number of architects and external consultants advising clients on various projects including site appraisals, comprehensive planning strategies, pre-application enquiries, and preparing and submitting planning applications, certificates of lawfulness and planning appeals.
Outside of work I am a dad of two and enjoy running in my spare time.
Alexa Burns
BA (Hons) Dip TP MRTPI
Associate
I graduated from Oxford Brooked University in 2001 with a BA Honours in Planning Studies and a Post Graduate Diploma in Town Planning. My planning career started as an in-house advisor to a medium sized developer with an interest in both residential and commercial projects. I gained my RTPI Membership in 2003. I moved to planning consultancy in 2006, based in a central Manchester practice for just under 10 years, where I mainly worked for retail and residential clients.
Since joining Emery Planning in 2016, I have advised on a broad range of projects in the North-West, Midlands and South-East of the County, including commercial, residential and mixed-use schemes. Many of our projects start at inception and with initial appraisal / advice and progress to the co-ordination, preparation and submission of planning applications, from householder schemes to major applications. I also have experience in dealing with Enforcement matter and Enforcement Appeals.
I am a Mum of two (a teenager and an almost teenager) and when I find a spare moment, I enjoy playing netball and being outdoors, ideally walking or hiking and I love taking photos. When at primary school the Year 6 teacher named me the ‘demon bower’ due to my fast and accurate bowling skills…not sure I have retained this skill, but I would like to think I have! I have also (much more recently) canoed with manatees in the wild and been on the tallest and longest tunnel slide in the World!
Tom Smith
BSc (Hons) MPlan MRTPI
Associate
I studied Geography at the University of Liverpool, before completing a Masters in Planning at the University of Manchester. I became a Chartered Member of the RTPI in 2009.
I have circa 20 years’ planning experience, in both statutory and strategic planning. I have significant planning consultancy experience, having worked in pre-eminent private practices in the North West.
Aside from providing general planning services to clients, I specialise in residential planning including assessments of housing land supply, navigating developments in the green belt / grey belt, town centre & retail planning and environmental planning for water companies.
A fun fact about me is that early on in my career, I lived in Melbourne, Australia for 4 years and got to know a zonal-based rather than market-driven planning system and dealt with unique issues such as bushfire planning and native vegetation.”
Lynn Jones
MA MRTPI
associate
After completing my Masters degree in Landscape Planning and Management back in 2006 at the University of Manchester, I went straight into private sector planning and haven’t looked back, joining the Emery Planning team in 2016. I manage a variety of projects, with a particular focus on green belt development, waste planning and complex enforcement matters; bringing together professionals in related fields to address a range of planning issues and guiding clients through the planning process from start to finish. I have extensive experience representing clients at Appeal Hearings, Public Inquiries and Local Plan Examinations. Outside of work, I’m generally found outdoors – either hiking or in my garden… or honing my negotiation skills with my two high school aged children.
Clare Gascoigne
Dip URP MRTPI
Senior Consultant
I began my planning career as a Planning Technician at Manchester City Council before moving to Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council, where I progressed to Senior Planning Technician. I later joined the Peak District National Park Authority, where I worked as a Planning Assistant, Planner and Senior Planner.
My planning qualifications were achieved alongside my professional career. After attending New Mills School, I completed ONC and HNC qualifications in Land Use Planning at Central Manchester College while working in local government. I then went on to achieve a Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma in Urban and Regional Studies through Sheffield Hallam University while working at Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council and the Peak District National Park Authority.
Over the years, I have developed extensive experience across a wide range of planning matters, with particular expertise in rural development, agricultural and equestrian proposals, conservation and heritage projects, lawful development matters and householder applications. I also bring considerable experience from the hospitality sector, having worked on planning projects involving bars, restaurants and hospitality venues across the country.
Outside of work, I enjoy keeping active through swimming, cycling, skiing and walking, and I am happiest when spending time in the mountains, particularly the Alps. When I’m not working on planning projects, you’ll often find me exploring the outdoors and dreaming about one day swapping Derbyshire for a permanent home in the French Alps.
Sarah Sands
BA (Hons) Msc MRTPI
Senior Consultant
I started working for the company in 1995 initially as a temporary secretary, after moving to the area from Kent. I loved the family environment of the company and I decided to stay! I then worked as a CAD technician, Assistant Consultant and a Consultant, achieving a Masters in Environmental Planning at Liverpool University whilst working.
My projects include advising on a variety of proposals, mainly in the locality in the Green Belt. My specialism is working with residential children’s home providers to obtain consent for children’s homes as well as schools for children with special educational needs. This involves Certificates of Lawfulness, planning applications and appeals.
I enjoy my voluntary role as a Chair of Governors at Eaton Bank Academy in Congleton, where I have particular responsibility for safeguarding and SEND.
When I’m not working and volunteering, I love to walk with friends, read and go to Zumba classes!
Aaron Marrs
BSc (Hons) Msc MRTPI
Senior Consultant
I joined Emery Planning in 2019 after gaining four years of experience with another planning consultancy. I studied Geography at the University of Chester before completing a Master’s degree in Town Planning at the University of Manchester.
Throughout my career, I have prepared and managed a wide range of planning applications, including conversions, diversification schemes, residential developments and land promotions through the Local Plan process. I have developed particular expertise in Green Belt development, replacement dwellings and the redevelopment of sites for a variety of uses, helping clients navigate planning challenges and achieve successful outcomes.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with classic cars, exploring the countryside on long walks with my dog, Peggy, and setting off on new adventures in the caravan. Whether it’s discovering somewhere new or making the most of the great outdoors, I enjoy finding opportunities to switch off and spend time with family and friends.
Louise Whinnett
BA (Hons) MA MRTPI
Senior Consultant
I hold a BA (Hons) degree in Geography and a Master’s degree in Town Planning, and I am a Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (MRTPI).
I have worked in the planning profession for over 18 years, with my experience split equally between the local authority and private sectors. This background has given me a well-rounded understanding of the planning process from both a public and private perspective.
My expertise lies within the development management field, where I provide practical advice on all stages of the planning process, from pre-application discussions and site appraisals through to the submission of planning applications and appeals. Over the course of my career, I have worked on a diverse range of projects, including major mixed-use residential schemes, commercial developments, smaller-scale proposals and new development within the Green Belt.
Outside of work, I enjoy keeping bees and spending time outdoors. Beekeeping has given me a fascinating insight into the natural environment and the importance of biodiversity, while also providing plenty of patience-testing moments along the way!
Victoria Wood
BSc (Hons) MPlan MRTPI
Senior Consultant
I studied Geography at undergraduate, before completing a Masters of Planning at the University of Manchester and became a Chartered Member of the RTPI in 2020. I have spent my career working in consultancy and joined Emery Planning in 2017. Since joining Emery Planning I have gained experience of working on a range of projects and applications including applications for large and small scale residential development, householder applications, appeals and planning appraisals.
Outside of work, I’m a mum of two boys and enjoy walking and yoga.
Bruce O'Brien
MSc MRTPI
Senior Consultant
After a career spent mainly in the construction industry, I gained a master’s degree in Town Planning and then went on to work in Local Authority where I continued to study for a post graduate certificate in Historic Buildings Conservation; I completed my APC and became a full member of the RTPI. I now sit on the RTPI Education and Lifelong Learning Committee.
Two years ago, I returned to the private sector as a Senior Planning Consultant where I have worked on a variety of projects including commercial developments, renewable energy schemes and complex residential appeals.
I played football until the age of 57 until my knees gave way and I now enjoy playing golf. Since moving to the Peak District, I have started fly fishing, but I haven’t caught any flies yet.
I once built a podium for Queen Elizabeth II, the person not the boat, so I am technically here by Royal Appointment.
Emily Sykes
BA (Hons), MSc MRTPI
Senior Consultant
I completed my undergraduate degree in Human Geography at the University of Liverpool, and then went on to study my postgraduate degree at the University of Manchester in Urban Regeneration and Development.
Following this, I worked at Rochdale Borough Council as an Assistant Planning Officer, before joining Emery Planning in September 2021.
At Emery Planning, I have experience working on a wide range of projects including planning applications for small and large scale residential developments, appeals, certificates of lawfulness and site appraisals.
I enjoy going to concerts and festivals, and I am a member of a book club.
Wiktoria Sypnicka
BA (Hons) AssocRTPI
Senior Consultant
Wiki joined Emery Planning as part of the Planning Support Team in 2019 after completing her undergraduate degree at Newcastle University. She has gained a broad range of experience from technical and administrative planning to assisting with various projects including: small scale residential developments, householder projects, certificates of lawfulness, change of use and development plan representations.
Jill Paton
BA (Hons), MSc
Senior Consultant
I joined Emery Planning as part of the planning support team after completing my undergraduate degree in Philosophy at the University of Nottingham in 2015. I gained invaluable experience in this role before obtaining my master’s degree in planning at the University of Manchester in 2019.
During my time at Emery Planning, I have gained experience working on a broad variety of projects, including planning appeals for large housing developments, development plan representations, site appraisals, and a wide range of planning applications. I now specialise in five year housing land supply matters, including preparing desk-based assessments and assisting with the preparation of housing land supply evidence for appeal hearings and inquiries. Outside of the planning world, I spend a lot of time songwriting and recording music. I released my debut album Aftermath in 2023 and am working towards releasing my second album this year.
Matthew Fenton
MPlan
ASSISTANT Consultant
Having graduated from Newcastle University in summer 2024, I returned to Emery full-time and have been assisting on a range of projects. I am currently enjoying a variety of projects and using the experience and expertise of my seniors to support my professional development. When I am not working I am usually spending time with my nephews and niece, caring for my 20 year old cat or travelling the world. I once spent 2 nights in a hurricane shelter in Mexico and have walked along the Great Wall of China.
Holly Jackson
MPlan
ASSISTANT Consultant
After graduating from Newcastle University in July with my MPlan in Urban Planning, I’ve spent my first month at Emery getting stuck into a various range of projects, learning from such a knowledgeable team, and already feeling like part of the Emery family.
My early planning journey started in Summer 2018, where I gained experience and a love for planning at Barton Willmore and Tameside General Hospital within their Planning teams. After achieving my A-levels, I completed my Master of Planning honours at Newcastle University. During this time, I spent my placement year at Newcastle City Council where I worked on housing policy monitoring, preparation of housing land supply evidence for appeal hearings, interactive GIS mapping and managed my own caseload of minor planning applications.
My time at Emery Planning so far has allowed me to explore specialisms in desk-based assessments for five-year housing land supply, to assist with the preparation of evidence for upcoming inquiries, whilst also preparing representations for consultations on Local Plan Issues and options.
Outside of planning, you’ll usually find me running, in the gym, experimenting in the kitchen, or listening to good music with friends.
Alysia Davidson
senior PLANNING SUPPORT
Alysia joined Emery Planning in 2007. She has extensive knowledge of development management technical and administrative matters and manages our planning application and appeal submissions. She also deals with public consultations, Land Registry matters and assists with preparation of Environmental Statements.
Jane Griffin
senior PLANNING SUPPORT
I started my planning career at Macclesfield Borough Council in planning administration in the 1990s. I joined Emery Planning in 2004 in Planning Support and completed a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning at Sheffield Hallam University in 2008.
In 2019 I took a career break from Planning when my son was young and re-trained and worked as a Teaching Assistant, rejoining Emery Planning in January 2026.
I have experience of working on a wide variety of projects including Green Belt development, listed buildings and conservation areas, commercial and residential development and lawful development certificates. I have also assisted with community engagement events and consultation. I have significant experience in the preparation and submission of planning applications and appeals and progress chasing both post-submission.
Outside of planning I enjoy travelling, walking in the local area and North Wales and have 3 cats which keep me very busy.
Kayleigh Neild
BUSINESS SUPPORT
I joined Emery Planning in 2005 after studying at Macclesfield College. Originally part of the administration team I moved across to the support team after completing courses in CAD/photoshop and website design. In the 20 years working here I have gained wide experience creating masterplans/site analysis/context plans, vision documents and general Graphic Design. I am currently undertaking Post Graduate Diploma in Graphic Design. Within the last few years my role has expanded into Business Support, assisting with marketing.
In my spare time i mostly play referee to my 3 cats; I enjoy drawing; swimming and watching (and screaming at) football!
Debbie Parsons
ADMINISTRATION ASSOCIATE
I started my education at Park Royal Primary School and thereafter attended Ryles Park High School achieving my GCSE’s and A’Levels.
I started my secretarial/administrative career at a local solicitors’ office in Macclesfield working there in my formative years as a secretary and then working my way through the company to eventually assisting one of the Directors as a secretary/PA. I then decided to look for a change in career and took the opportunity to work at Emery Planning where I have worked for the last 16 years and enjoyed every minute.
In my spare time I am a wife and mum to 2 beautiful boys who keep me very busy, but I also enjoy gardening, cooking (and eating out) and Zumba.
Sophie Warren
Accounts aSSOCIATE
i joined Emery Planning in January 2007 after completing 2 years at Natwest Bank and a short time in a medical practice where I gained certification for Venepuncture (Phlebotomy – taking blood).
Originally part of the administration team, I moved across to the accounts team issuing and chasing accounts.
I solely issue monthly accounts on behalf of all our consultants. In the 18 years working here, I have gained vast experience in Credit Control including liaising with solicitors and barristers.
In my spare time, I enjoy going on long walks in the countryside, visiting different places in the UK and abroad, reading and I have two daughters (one in high school and the other in primary school) who keep me on my toes(!).
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