Collas Crill has appointed Senior Planning Consultant Chris Crew to offer specialist planning advice as part of its property services in Guernsey.

Joining the firm in early April, Chris will offer advice on all matters relating to planning, including initial options and feasibility analyses, exemption queries, pre-application enquiries, development frameworks, planning applications, enforcement matters and appeals. He will also provide advice to clients who may be concerned about potential impacts arising from a proposed development, as well as making representations on their behalf.

With more than 17 years' experience gained in the UK and Guernsey, Chris has managed high-profile and contentious planning applications and appeals, including large-scale residential, office and renewable energy developments. He was elected as a Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute in 2017 and joins the firm from the States of Guernsey Planning Service where he has worked as a senior planning officer for the past eight years.

Chris said: 'I'm looking forward to joining Collas Crill's property team after many years in the public sector. This is a fantastic opportunity for me to use the knowledge and experience I've gained and apply that in a new way on behalf of the firm's clients.

'The planning system works best for all involved when a well-resourced public sector is supported by a strong private sector, able to offer independent advice and constructive challenge. The strength in depth and local knowledge that Collas Crill's property team possess will provide the perfect base to enable me to deliver that in Guernsey.'

Guernsey head of property Paul Nettleship said: 'I am absolutely delighted to welcome Chris to the team. Although we advise on all aspects of Guernsey property law, we see an increasing demand for specialism. Chris will offer a service much in demand in this sector, and bring a wealth of experience that will complement our offering, and provide additional value to our clients which has always been our focus.'