Planning shouldn’t be the thing that puts your project at risk
Independent planning consultancy for developers, landowners and design teams across the UK. With nearly 20 years of experience, I help you cut through the complexity and move your project forward with confidence.
Straight-talking, solutions-driven advice for developers, landowners and development professionals
You’re leading a project with a lot riding on it, timelines, budgets, design integrity and commercial viability. Planning shouldn’t be the thing that slows everything down.
I’m Gillian, founder of Focus Town Planning. With nearly two decades of experience on developments across the North West, I help developers and development professionals such as project managers and architects move projects through the planning process with clarity, confidence and momentum.
I speak the language of local authorities, understand the commercial pressures you’re under, and know the reality of what will, and won’t, get approved.
If there’s a way to unlock your site’s potential, I’ll find it. If there’s a risk or constraint, I’ll help you manage it early so you stay in control of the outcome.
“My role as your planning consultant is to help you navigate the planning jargon and understand what’s possible, what’s sensible, and what steps to take next, calmly and confidently.”
How I support your project
I support developers, landowners and architects with clear planning strategy, commercially aware advice, and proactive management of the full application process. Whether you need a planning strategy, policy interpretation, planning statements, or hands-on negotiation with officers, I’ll slot seamlessly into your team and move things forward.
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Know what's possible before you commit.
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Shape stronger proposals from the start.
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Clear, compelling cases for approval.
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One point of contact, end to end.
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Resolve issues before they become blockers.
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Honest advice when things get difficult.
Client showcase
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"Gill's understanding of planning regulations and the way she handled communication with the council made a huge difference."
Cragg Farm
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Leading a complex planning application to secure 60 affordable homes on a challenging brownfield site.
Spurr House
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Securing prior approval to convert a vacant town centre bank into seven apartments, with a clear route to ground floor commercial activation.
The Bank
Get clear, practical advice on your project
Planning decisions carry risk. A focused consultation will help you understand what you’re really dealing with and whether it’s worth progressing.
I offer a fixed fee initial consultation to:
Identify the key planning risks affecting your site
Understand what’s realistic (and what isn’t)
Decide whether to move forward and what the right planning approach looks like
This has been designed to give you clear, commercially grounded planning strategy so you can make informed decisions.
