I am a solicitor specialising in planning law at Burges Salmon LLP, based in Bristol.

The planning team are nationally-recognised experts in delivering planning law advice to both the public and private sectors. We support clients across the UK through the whole development process, from consenting strategy to legal challenge. In addition to our knowledge of this complex area of law, we advise on issues that sit alongside the planning process, such as infrastructure agreements, highways and compulsory purchase. Prior to qualifying as a solicitor, I gained a PhD and have several years of university teaching experience.

The subject of my PhD drew inspiration from a series of lectures at the Architectural Association in London entitled ‘The Ugly’. I am fascinated by the concept of ugliness viewed not as the opposite of beauty but in terms of ‘matter out of place’. I am applying for the role of Associate expert because it presents a unique opportunity for me to combine this life-long interest with technical knowledge of planning law. I would very much like to be a part of the expert network proposed by the Planning White Paper and to assist with the development of a ‘fast-track for beauty’.