Josh always aspired to be an architect, studying 3D design at Newcastle College. After two years of CAD and computer modelling, he decided to study interior architecture. Once Josh was asked to pick up a pencil and paintbrush, he suddenly realised that he couldn’t draw. Josh admitted, “After the utter embarrassment of making the interior of a sleek hotel look like Fred Flintstone’s living room, I dropped out after only 6 months.”
Josh remained committed to his passion for the built environment by pursuing a Town Planning degree at Newcastle University, which he completed in 2016. He worked at North Yorkshire County Council as a Student Planner before returning to his hometown, Newcastle, in 2018 to complete his Planning Degree. Josh also joined Fairhurst as a part-time Graduate Planner during his studies, before going full-time after graduation.
8 years later at Fairhurst, Josh has worked his way up to Technical Director for Planning and Landscape, overseeing the discipline across the firm. Working with a broad client base, Josh and his team offer planning and environmental consultancy services for both public and private sectors. He has secured planning permissions for major UK developments on land and within the marine environment. In 2024, he won the RTPI North East Young Planner of the Year Award, recognised for the diversity and impact of his work.
Josh has particularly thrived in the Marine Planning sector, becoming a trusted consultant for Ports and Harbours projects nationwide A standout achievement is his pivotal role with Swans Energy Park, formerly known as the Swan Hunter Yard. For this major regeneration project, he secured key engineering works and consents, including a marine licence and planning permission and helped obtain £7.5 million in government funding. Josh is now focused on progressing the next phase to prepare the site for the offshore sector.
As Technical Director, Josh is determined to sustain the team’s success and drive the growth of the planning and landscape discipline across the firm. He aims to build on their achievements while exploring new opportunities for innovation and collaboration within the industry. He is committed to fostering an environment where creativity and excellence can thrive, ensuring that Fairhurst continues to lead in the planning sector.
