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Tondra Thom
Principal Director of Planning
Planning
Tondra Thom is a Principal Director of Planning, and Head of Planning Consultancy, with over 20 years’ experience spanning both public and private sectors. Her expertise includes policy, appeals, applications, expert witness, and strategic development advice.
She has led major residential and commercial schemes, including planning inquiries and complex projects within sensitive landscapes. Also brings a strong track record in local plan delivery, CIL implementation, and environmental assessment.
Known for her strategic insight, commercial awareness and ability to communicate complex planning matters with clarity and confidence, she is a trusted advisor and supports developers with commercially focused, results-driven planning consultancy.
Adept at managing multidisciplinary teams and navigating challenging planning environments, her collaborative approach, combined with a strong grasp of both policy and development pressures, enables her to build consensus, resolve conflict, and drive positive outcomes. With a hands-on management style and commitment to high professional standards, Tondra consistently delivers results aligned with client objectives and planning goals.
Work highlights
Strategic Residential Development in a Protected Landscape
Tondra led the planning for a complex reserved matters application within a National Park, balancing sensitive environmental constraints with the delivery of a major housing allocation. Provided strategic guidance through negotiation, resulting in a successful grant of planning permission.
Successful Planning Appeals at Recent Public Inquiries
Provided expert evidence and acted as planning witness at contested public inquiries. The appeals were allowed, with the Inspectors accepting the planning cases presented. Tondra demonstrated strong technical understanding under cross-examination.
Cultural-Led Regeneration Scheme
Led the planning strategy for a high-value, government-funded regeneration project incorporating commercial and cultural uses. The scheme involved close liaison with stakeholders and design teams, culminating in a resolution to grant in the tightly controlled planning environment of a nationally protected landscape.
Recent articles
Events
Enjoy drinks and nibbles, network with industry professionals and hear from our expert Planning team on Biodiversity Net Gain at our latest instalment of housebuilders focused events in Guildford.
Insights
The High Court has delivered an important judgment on Community Infrastructure Levy liabilities where a self-build exemption is granted but the project does not proceed to completion.
26/11/2025
Insights
The government’s aspiration for a more efficient, transparent planning system is very welcome and the development sector is eager to get building. But the reality in 2025 is one of uncertainty and challenge.
11/08/2025
Announcements
We are delighted to announce the appointment of our new Director of Planning Tondra Thom, who brings over 20 years of experience across both the public and private sectors.
02/05/2025