Multi-disciplinary development consultancy Marrons has announced four promotions across its planning and heritage teams as it continues to expand nationally following a 35% increase in revenue in 2025/26.
Effective from 1 November 2026, Marrons has promoted Ben Ward to partner. Ben, based in Nottingham, is a chartered town planner with around 10 years’ experience across local government, consultancy and the development industry. He has a strong track record in managing major planning applications and promoting sites through the local plan process.
Alasdair Avila-Thorne, based in Birmingham, has been promoted to planning director. A chartered town planner specialising in residential and commercial development, Alasdair advises on planning applications, strategic site promotion, local plan representations and five-year housing land supply assessments. His experience spans both plan-making and the preparation of planning applications.
Louis Jones, based in Stratford-upon-Avon, has been promoted to senior planner. Since joining Marrons, Louis has worked across a wide range of planning applications, appeals and site promotions, working closely with developers, landowners and homeowners to provide clear, practical advice throughout the planning process. He also supports policy monitoring and strategic land promotion, and supports and mentors Marrons’ graduates.
Aimee Hudson-Brown, based in Nottingham, has been promoted to heritage planner. Since joining Marrons, Aimee has worked on a range of strategic land projects, providing heritage and archaeological advice to support development proposals through the planning process. She has experience preparing heritage impact assessments, heritage statements and archaeological desk-based assessments, and uses GIS-based analysis to inform decision-making and identify opportunities and constraints within the historic environment.
The promotions follow a strong year for Marrons, which increased revenue by 35% in 2025/26 to £13.1m. Growth has been driven by lateral hires, an expanding geographical footprint and increasing client demand for its services.
Brian Mullin, partner and head of Marrons, said: “These promotions reflect the strength of our planning and heritage teams and the expertise we are continuing to build as the business grows.
“Ben and Alasdair bring considerable experience in navigating complex planning issues and helping clients progress development opportunities, while Louis is building his expertise across applications, appeals and strategic site promotion. Aimee’s promotion also recognises the important role heritage expertise plays in delivering sustainable development.
“We’re seeing growing demand from clients looking for clear, commercially grounded planning advice, and investing in our people is central to meeting that demand as we expand our reach across the country.”
