National planning and development consultancy Lichfields has strengthened its Thames Valley presence with the appointment of two new planners, marking another phase of growth for its Reading office as it celebrates its tenth anniversary.
Mariam Ahmed and Willow Cockerill have joined the consultancy at a time when the Thames Valley team is seeing increased demand across residential, commercial, and infrastructure sectors. Their appointments reflect Lichfields’ strategy of investing in emerging talent while responding to the region’s evolving development opportunities.
Ahmed recently completed her MSc in Spatial Planning and Development at the University of Reading, having earlier gained a BSc in Human Geography from the same institution. She also brings practical experience from her role as a GIS technician, where she applied spatial analysis techniques to land management projects.
Cockerill, a graduate of the University of Sheffield, holds an MPlan in Urban Studies and Planning, accredited by both the RTPI and RICS. During her studies, she completed placements at Hart District Council and Dorset Council, where she gained hands-on experience in development management, policy formulation and renewable energy planning.
Daniel Lampard, Head of Lichfields’ Thames Valley office, welcomed the new recruits:
“We’re delighted to have Mariam and Willow join the team. Their enthusiasm, coupled with strong academic backgrounds, will enhance our ability to deliver across a wide range of projects. Attracting and nurturing talented graduates is fundamental to our long-term strategy, building on the success of our internship programme which has already provided invaluable industry experience to a number of students.”
Since opening its Reading base in 2014, Lichfields has established a strong reputation in the Thames Valley, delivering a number of landmark projects. These include the expansion of LEGOLAND Windsor Resort and Berkeley Homes’ transformation of the former Horlicks factory in Slough. The team’s expertise extends across residential and hospitality-led schemes, while it is increasingly active in sectors such as data centres, renewable energy and infrastructure — areas which continue to attract significant investment in the region.
Ahmed said she was eager to get involved in projects that combine academic theory with practical impact:
“Joining Lichfields at such a dynamic time is hugely exciting. The variety of projects on offer provides the perfect platform to apply my academic knowledge and develop professionally within a supportive environment.”
Cockerill echoed the sentiment:
“Starting my career at a consultancy with such a strong track record in the Thames Valley is a fantastic opportunity. I’m looking forward to contributing to projects that will make a real difference to local communities and the wider region.”
The appointments underline Lichfields’ dual focus on expanding its project delivery capacity and supporting the next generation of planning professionals. With Reading at the heart of one of the UK’s fastest-growing economic corridors, the strengthened team is well-placed to capitalise on opportunities in a diverse range of sectors, from housing and leisure to emerging infrastructure and energy markets.
