Welsh planning firm promotes staff as affordable housing work grows
Cadnant Planning, a consultancy based in Wales, has advanced two employees as it grows its operations in affordable housing and strengthens its footprint in north-east Wales and Chester.
Two promotions highlight a year of expansion
The company named Sion Roberts as an Associate Planner and raised Jack Lally to Planner, acknowledging their roles as the business takes on more affordable housing and infrastructure projects. Headquartered in Conwy and Pulford, near Wrexham and Chester, Cadnant has experienced rising demand this summer, collaborating with developers, housing associations, and educational partners. Managing Director Sioned Edwards framed the promotions as proof of the firm’s dedication to staff growth.
“Our team’s development is central to our success,” she stated. “This means offering greater responsibility, professional growth, and sustainable career paths.”
The advancements coincide with Cadnant’s plans to expand further in north-east Wales and Chester, where the firm has already established credibility. Edwards described the current phase as a dynamic period for the organization.
Professional growth driven by affordable housing focus
Sion Roberts, a Chartered Town Planner recognized by the Royal Town Planning Institute, joined Cadnant four years ago after working with Gwynedd and Conwy councils. His promotion follows a transition into managing larger affordable housing initiatives.
“My responsibilities have broadened considerably,” he noted. “I now oversee more complex affordable housing projects, and it’s fulfilling to contribute to initiatives that deliver tangible benefits.”
Jack Lally, originally from Prestatyn, was promoted just two years after starting as a graduate with no prior experience. He remains enrolled in part-time studies toward an RTPI Chartership while handling his own planning cases.
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“Cadnant invested in my potential early on,” he said. “They entrusted me with key tasks and supported my continuous development.” His quick rise includes leading application processes and working directly with clients.
Active summer work fuels future goals
Beyond the promotions, Cadnant participated in major industry gatherings, including the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show, Sioe Môn, and the Flint and Denbigh Show, reinforcing its influence in Welsh planning circles.
The firm is now recruiting experienced professionals in the Wrexham/Chester region to support its expansion. Edwards highlighted ongoing momentum, with “multiple exciting projects in development” and intentions to strengthen its established reputation.
While Cadnant has long specialized in affordable housing, recent hiring efforts indicate a broader push into infrastructure and education-related projects. The promotions reflect an internal culture that ties advancement to performance—a contrast with a sector often criticized for limited career progression.
No specific timeline has been announced for additional hiring, but the company’s emphasis on training and qualifications reflects a broader trend among Welsh planning firms to address skill shortages by nurturing junior talent.
The firm’s offices in Conwy and Pulford remain central to its operations, ensuring proximity to key development zones in Wrexham and Chester.
