South East presence strengthens with two senior planner appointments

We are thrilled to have expanded our newly opened Tunbridge Wells office with the appointment of two senior planners.

The Tunbridge Wells office, which opened in August 2025, represents a key part of our strategic growth in the South East. Located at Lonsdale Gate, just three minutes from the town’s railway station, the office is led by partner and head of socio economics Simon Macklen alongside planning director and joint South East lead Josh Mellor.

Owen McLeod and Abby Shillingford join as part of the consultancy’s ambition to grow a multidisciplinary team in the region – supporting clients across Kent, Sussex, Essex and surrounding areas.

Having held roles at KLW Ltd, in Tunbridge Wells, and before that Heaton Planning, Rushcliffe Borough Council and Urbana Town Planning, Owen brings experience from both the public and private sectors. He will be advising on the development potential of land and buildings, prepare planning applications at all stages and provide planning policy research and advice.

Owen said: “I had only ever heard good things about Marrons before joining. The diversity of projects across different sectors really attracted me and I’m excited to help grow the South East team following the office opening in Tunbridge Wells. I’m also keen to broaden my skills by working with colleagues nationwide across socio economics, masterplanning and other specialisms.”

Abby joins from Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, where she has worked within the development management team since 2016, progressing from graduate planning officer to senior planner. Abby has a master’s degree in planning, with research focused on sustainable infrastructure and mobility in the borough. She brings extensive local knowledge and experience in managing a wide range of applications, from single dwellings to larger developments.

Abby said: “I was ready for a new challenge and Marrons’ arrival in Tunbridge Wells came at the perfect time. Having only worked in the public sector until now, I’m looking forward to gaining experience from a new angle while continuing to use my local expertise. I’m particularly excited to build strong client relationships and support the growth of our South East team.”

Josh Mellor, planning director, added: “Owen and Abby are fantastic additions to our growing South East team. They bring complementary strengths – Owen with his varied experience across different regions and sectors, and Abby with her deep local insight and track record at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. Together, they help strengthen our offer and support our client’s aspirations across the region.”