Bell Pottinger North strengthens planning PR credentials

23.08.2010

London-based Development Securities is working with local architects to improve a scheme that was granted planning consent in 2008 after a two-year planning battle and high-profile opposition campaign waged by a local residents' group.

Bell Pottinger North, which is part of the Bell Pottinger Group and based in Macclesfield, is advising the developer on a communications programme aimed at proactively engaging with the local community. The campaign includes liaising with key stakeholders, media relations and organising public exhibitions to generate feedback on the proposals.

Laurence Martin, development director at Development Securities, said: "We selected Bell Pottinger North as it demonstrated a thorough understanding of the local area and planning issues. The team's communications strategy has helped us to build relationships within the local community and generated significant interest in our plans with nearly 500 people attending our first public exhibition."

Deborah Garritty, head of Bell Pottinger North's property, planning and construction practice, said: "The redevelopment of The Square has caused much controversy over the last few years, so our campaign had to take into account previous concerns raised by the local community.

"We have worked closely with Development Securities to communicate the benefits of its new and improved scheme, and are confident that there will be a successful outcome once the application is submitted."

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Press contacts:

Debbie Garritty / Emily Crellin at Bell Pottinger North

 01625 506411/413

dgarritty@bellpottingernorth.co.uk / ecrellin@bellpottingernorth.co.uk
Notes to editors

Bell Pottinger North is part of the Bell Pottinger Group - voted number one in PR Week's league tables for the last seven years. With offices in Cheshire, Liverpool and Leeds, its specialisms include, property, planning, construction, professional services, healthcare, technology and aerospace and aviation. For more information, visit www.bellpottingernorth.co.uk.