Welcome to the Meeting Place Communications website.

We are a public affairs consultancy specialising in local government politics and community consultation. Much of our work is focused on understanding and acting on the planning system and in particular the increasing influence of politicians and the community. Many of our clients are developers who are increasingly frustrated by delays in the planning process.

In recent years planning has become increasingly political. Recommendations by council officers are often ignored. The Planning Act 2004 has provided a greater role for communities. Public consultation is now a prerequisite for all major schemes.

Relying on the appeal process often leads to considerable delay.

At Meeting Place Communications we recognise that 'old fashioned' lobbying doesn't work. What does make a real difference is a recognition that the community and local politicians cannot be avoided. A proactive campaign designed to identify the issues and opportunities for the community of a scheme, to communicate those opportunities and seek support for a scheme's benefits can save time and achieve a planning consent.

We hope you find the website useful. It includes a planning and politics advice forum for informal ideas to help your projects and a downloadable version of our latest guide to politics and planning.

If I can help please call me on 01225 422243

Ian Thorn    Director