Chris obtained a first-class degree in BA Geography from the University of Leicester in 2015 before graduating from the University of Birmingham with an RTPI accredited post-graduate degree in Urban and Regional Planning.

Upon the completion of his post-graduate degree course, Chris joined the Consents Team at National Grid as part of their graduate scheme programme. During his time at National Grid, Chris provided support on two nationally significant infrastructure projects (NSIPs), North West Coast Connection and North Wales Connection, and developed an understanding of the processes and challenges associated with delivering major development schemes.

Chris left National Grid in the summer of 2017 to pursue a role as a planning officer in the Development Management Team at Milton Keynes City Council. During the subsequent 4 years at MKCC, Chris managed a wide range of complex and challenging planning applications on behalf of the Council and was promoted to the position of Principal Planning Officer in the process. Of particular note during Chris’s time at MKCC was his involvement in managing the planning application for the award-winning redevelopment of the Agora Centre in Wolverton. A unique mixed use urban regeneration project, Chris successfully guided the application through the development management process by deploying his strong project management skills, comprehensive understanding of national and local planning policy and sound planning judgement. Other highlights from Chris’s time at MKCC include his input into the delivery of Council-led affordable housing in several challenging in-fill locations throughout the City and his involvement in the consenting process for infrastructure associated with East West Rail.

Since joining Smith Jenkins at their Milton Keynes office in November 2021, Chris has supported and led on a mix of commercial and residential projects. Of particular significance has been his involvement in supporting the estate management of Moto Hospitality through the submission of new applications for Motorway Service Areas and monitoring competitor activity throughout the UK. Alongside this work, he has mentored junior members of the team and provided support to clients through the preparation of representations and planning appraisals.