Planning and development consultancy Montagu Evans has further increased its planning capability with the appointment of Mark Gibney as Partner.

The former Head of Planning at Avison Young’s London office joins the partnership this week with a focus on supporting new and existing clients to leverage opportunities across the capital, particularly within the outer London boroughs. 

A specialist in major projects, primarily in housing and regeneration, Mark has 30+ years of experience in securing permission for numerous high-profile projects, including high-density, mixed-use and tall building developments. He maintains strong links with public sector organisations and undertakes expert witness work, including local inquiries and litigation. 

At Montagu Evans, he will focus on working with housebuilders, landowners, investors, developers and public sector clients, collaborating with specialists in other disciplines, including the historic environment and townscape, agency, advisory and viability.

This is the latest appointment in the growth of Montagu Evans’ planning capability. In the past year, it has appointed a further 14 new recruits to the team, of which six, including Partner Rachel Crick and Emma Gill (Associate), focus on planning and development projects in the capital. Colin Sinclair (Associate) and Tiahna Joshi (Planner) have joined the company’s housing and land planning team, and Ashley Collins has joined as Partner specialising in commercial planning, including data centres, life sciences and industrial/logistics.  

Craig Blatchford, Head of Planning at Montagu Evans, said: “Mark will build on our existing borough specialisms and step up our expertise in other key geographies across London to support clients bringing forward a wide range of schemes. His skill set, connections and local knowledge, especially in the outer boroughs and particularly around residential-led schemes, stand out, and his enthusiasm for supporting our next generation of planners will be hugely valuable as the team grows further in the months ahead.”     

Mark Gibney, Partner at Montagu Evans, added: “I have known and respected the Montagu Evans team for many years, not just from projects across London, but through its work across a wide range of sectors. In particular, I have regularly worked in tandem with its specialist heritage and townscape partners to deliver success for shared clients. Its collaboration, strong sense of partnership and commitment to supporting team members are all important factors as I take on this new role and get back to working closely with clients and supporting their plans.” 

Mark is a member of the RTPI.