The planning and development team at award-winning Chartered Surveyors and Property Consultancy, Wells McFarlane has grown with the appointment of a new Assistant Land Agent.
Tom Knowles, a graduate of the Royal Agricultural University, has joined the Lutterworth-based firm to support its well-established land agency, planning and development divisions.
“I’m from an agricultural background, my family has been farming in Leicestershire for over 20 years so rural matters have always interested me,” explains Tom. “However, I’ve never been drawn to the farming side so land agency seemed the logical career choice. After undertaking an apprenticeship, my degree and a subsequent graduate surveying role, I’ve built up a solid understanding of estate management, the planning process, and development land, and am keen to continue learning to better advise landowners and clients.
“As a Leicestershire local, Wells McFarlane have always been on my radar; their land portfolio is diverse and Trevor is especially well-known within the community so I’m looking forward to working alongside him to progress my career,” added Tom.
Alongside his new role, which includes responsibility for valuations, marketing and strategic planning advice, Tom is studying towards his RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) qualification and CAAV (Central Association of Agricultural Valuers) exams. He hopes to become accredited by the end of this year.
Trevor Wells, Director of Planning & Development at Wells McFarlane said: “The past year has seen our team complete some significant land deals, and our work has been steadily increasing, especially as development land remains in such scarce supply and competition for consented sites is strong, meaning the effective promotion of strategic land is more important than ever. Tom recognised this and applied at the ideal time. He is insightful, curious and friendly, and is proving a great addition to the team.”
In his spare time, Tom enjoys clay and game shooting, or trying new recipes in the kitchen.