AN acclaimed planning consultancy continues to grow, creating exciting career and development opportunities – from graduates to experienced professionals seeking a new challenge.
Based in Conwy and Pulford, near Chester, Cadnant Planning is recognised as one of the most respected chartered town planning consultancies in Wales and the North West.
The company, led by Managing Director Sioned Edwards alongside Founder Rhys Davies, works on landmark projects with leading developers, landowners, housing associations, education providers and infrastructure partners across the region.
As the business expands – and ahead of World Town Planning Day celebrated annually on November 8 – Cadnant is passionate about supporting and attracting new talent into the profession.
Not only recent graduates but also people from other industries with transferable skills that align with planning, construction, housing, and the built environment.
A key member of their team to have joined in recent years is Senior Planner Sion Roberts, from Y Felinheli.
A Chartered Town Planner accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), Sion studied for a City and Regional Planning degree at Cardiff University before embarking on a career in local government, first with Gwynedd local authority and later as a Planning Officer with Conwy County Borough Council.
“I’ve always been interested in construction, geography, the built environment and planning,” he said.
“Having worked within local authorities, I understand the process from every angle, which really helps in my role here at Cadnant Planning. It also means I have had the chance to work on both sides of the fence.”
Sion added: “This is a fantastic company with great opportunities to develop and grow. The variety of work is incredible, and no two days are ever the same.
“There’s a great team of us working at Cadnant, and I feel that there’s a real focus on having a happy work place with a good work/life balance. It’s great to have the flexibility to work from the office and remotely.
“The days I spend in the office are really important to me as I enjoy working as part of a close knit team, plus there’s usually someone doing a bakery run to celebrate application successes, or just because we fancy a treat or it’s Friday!”
The annual study tour to cities across Europe is also a firm favourite.
“It’s nice to step away from the work in the office and return to learn about how different cities have developed and how planning practices differ,” said Sion.
“It feels like a few days away with a close group of friends, and gives us some time to come together as a team. Experiencing new and different cultures has been fun, combining town planning and urban development experiences whilst cycling around cities such as Copenhagen and Seville, though closer to home witnessing the regeneration of Belfast through the restoration and repurposing of historic buildings and one of Europe’s largest urban waterfront regeneration projects at the Titanic Quarter was truly impressive.”
Originally from Bontnewydd, Sion – who lives with wife Luned and their daughters Lea and Anna – has contributed to major developments across the region, including work with leading social housing providers and a project of national significance for the energy industry.
“There are lots of professions that lend themselves to planning — from construction and procurement to social housing — there’s real synergy between them,” he said.
“It’s a privilege to work in a field that shapes our villages, towns, cities and landscapes, and to play a small part in helping create better places for future generations.”
Looking to the future, Sioned added: “As we expand across Wales, Cheshire, Wrexham, and the North West, we want to inspire more people to join us.
“Whether you’re a graduate or someone with valuable transferable skills, there’s a place for you in this exciting sector. Together we can help shape thriving, sustainable communities and boost the regional economy.”
