About
Prism Planning is an independent planning consultancy providing clear, practical advice to clients across the North East and beyond.
Our team brings together many years of experience from both the public and private sectors, giving us a strong understanding of how the planning system works from every angle. We work with private individuals, landowners, developers, businesses and public sector organisations across a wide range of projects, from straightforward planning applications through to complex developments, appeals and Environmental Impact Assessments.
Prism became part of the P&K Group in 2026, while continuing to operate as an independent consultancy. This gives our clients the benefit of the same personal, specialist planning advice, with access to wider design, fabrication and construction expertise where it can add value.
Above all, we believe planning should be straightforward, approachable and focused on finding the best route forward.
Sophie Gooch
Director
Sophie leads Prism Planning and brings 19 years of planning and environmental experience.
Her background includes consultancy, Local Authority work and the Environment Agency, with experience across infrastructure, agriculture, ports, mixed-use development, Marine Licensing and Environmental Impact Assessments.
Rod Hepplewhite
Principal Planning Consultant
Rod has extensive public and private sector planning experience across the North East.
He specialises in planning appeals and inquiries, expert witness work, Environmental Impact Assessments and renewable energy projects.
Alison Baines
Office Manager
Alison manages the day-to-day running of the office and supports the team with detailed planning research.
She has particular experience in investigating planning histories and assembling information for more complex sites.
Steve Barker
Consultant
Steve founded Prism Planning and led the business as Managing Director before retiring from the role in 2026.
He continues to support Prism as a consultant, bringing decades of experience from both local authorities and private consultancy.
