About Us

Prism Planning was formed in 2008 and is headed up by Steve Barker, a former Chief Planning Officer. There are few planning consultancies which can boast a former local authority chief as their managing director. You know when you get advice from Prism its from people who really understand the system at the highest level.

Steve has worked across many authorities in the north east, including Stockton on Tees, Hartlepool, North York Moors National Park, York City Council. He has also worked in the Environment Agency and brings a wide background to bear on planning problems. Steve worked in the public sector for around 20 years before moving into the private sector which means he has an in depth understanding of the way in which the system works and the role of officers and local politicians. Before creating Prism, he headed up the planning team at BHP’s Darlington office.

Rod Hepplewhite is the principal planning consultant at Prism and also has a substantial public sector background, gained in the North East. He has a particular expertise in the operation of planning appeals and inquiries and an enviable success rate as an expert witness. Since moving to the private sector, Rod has helped support a number of planning authorities with their workloads and has a particular interest and expertise in renewable energy.

The team are kept in check by Alison Baines the office manager. Alison is also an experienced planning researcher and understands her way around the workings of a planning department - an invaluable person to have when trying to assemble a complicated site history.

We also understand that engaging a planning consultant can seem a daunting and expensive exercise. We use straightforward language and tailor our fees to suit the requirements of the project. You will always be in charge of what you spend and set the limits on our involvement. With Prism, you won’t receive a bill you’re not expecting.

Please phone Prism on 01325 345960
or email admin@prism-planning.com