Duncan Holness

Duncan Holness has a diverse work experience spanning over several years. Duncan is currently working as the Head of Land and Planning at Advance Northumberland, a position they started in 2023. Prior to this, they worked as a Senior Land Manager at Ascent Homes, where they focused on land buying, securing planning permissions, and building new homes.

Before joining the private sector, Duncan held several roles in the public sector. Duncan worked as a Development Manager at Banks Group from 2020 to 2022, and as a Planning Officer at Gateshead Council from 2016 to 2020. During their time at Gateshead Council, they led on important projects such as the Gateshead Quays Masterplan and provided guidance on flood risk for planning applications.

Earlier in their career, Duncan served as a Planning Officer at Northumberland County Council and Newcastle City Council, where they were involved in policy development and community engagement. Duncan also worked as a Police Officer at Northumbria Police, where they investigated crimes and chaired a multi-agency problem solving group.

Duncan's work experience also includes roles as a Planning Officer at Telford & Wrekin Council and as a Trainee Planner at the Government office for the West Midlands.

In addition to their professional experience, Duncan Holness also worked as a Data Analyst at FootFall during a student placement, where they conducted statistical analysis and client reporting.

Overall, Duncan Holness has a background in land and planning, with a strong focus on policy development, project management, and community engagement.

Duncan Holness has a Bachelor's Degree in Geography from the University of Wolverhampton, which was completed in 2003. In 2006, they obtained their Master's Degree in Spatial Planning from Birmingham City University. In 2008, they completed their Post Graduate Certificate in Public Sector Management at Northumbria University.

In terms of additional certifications, Duncan Holness obtained the PRINCE2® Foundation and Practitioner Certification Training from AXELOS Global Best Practice in February 2022. Duncan also obtained the Chartered Town Planner (MRTPI) certification from the Royal Town Planning Institute in November 2018.