Emily Whitley - Ecology Clerk of Works

Emily joined the team in March 2024, taking on the role of coordinating ecology requirements across each parcel and the entire site. Her background includes a degree in Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology, followed by a Masters in Biological Recording. Over the course of more than 10 years in the private sector, Emily conducted ecology surveys and collaborated with clients to produce comprehensive reports and strategies. Her survey work encompassed a range of species, including Dormice, bats, Great Crested Newts, reptiles, and Badgers.

Outside of work, Emily treasures spending quality time with her family. On rare occasions, she indulges in playing underwater hockey, a unique and invigorating pastime.

Neil White - Development Planning Manager

Neil has been working within the development industry for 25 years, bringing experience from building surveying, construction, architecture, and planning.

Having worked on and seen delivered a wide range of development sectors from extra care to commercial, Neil has a good knowledge base in development delivery. His most recent experience is working within Vistry Group where he managed sites from land acquisition through to start on site. He is keen to help progress the One Horton Heath development to deliver high quality family homes to create a community for future generations.

You will find Neil in his free time coaching his son’s football team or playing badminton with his daughter. His more adventurous side will also see him off snowboarding or mountain biking with friends and family.

Ziyad Thomas - Senior Development Planning Manager

Ziyad has over 15 years’ experience as a town planner and has been a Chartered member of the Royal Town Planning Institute since 2010. Recognising the increased importance of financial viability in development and plan making, he joined the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors becoming Chartered in 2022. While he has experience in both the public and private sectors, he has predominantly worked in-house for housebuilders and has developed a significant level of expertise with specialist older persons’ accommodation in particular.

In his role as Senior Planning Manager, Ziyad will be assisting in the development and implementation of a site-wide planning strategy for One Horton Heath.

In his spare time Ziyad enjoys both listening to and playing music, travel and helping his children explore the countryside.

Irina Slavova - Design Coordinator

Irina is our dedicated Design Coordinator for the One Horton Heath project. With a background in architecture and interior design, Irina brings valuable skills and a passion for collaboration to our team.

Equipped with a Bachelor's degree in Architecture and a Master's in Interior Design, Irina adeptly merges technical knowledge with creative flair. Despite her 3 years of experience, Irina consistently delivers exceptional results, ensuring that the project exceeds expectations.

Collaborating closely with our Technical Managers, she navigates complexities and streamlines processes to bring our visions to life effectively. Irina also assists in planning and liaising with design consultants and contractors, facilitating seamless coordination and communication.

Outside of work, Irina finds inspiration in nature, music, and portrait drawing, infusing her creativity into both professional and personal pursuits.