Gill Eaton
Gill Eaton

Gill Eaton

BA(Hons) Dip TP MRTPI

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Known for her collaborative, pragmatic and results-focused approach, Gill has expertise in all aspects of development management

 

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Gill joined Bell Cornwell in 2026 as a Senior Associate, bringing over 25 years’ experience across local government and consultancy. Her background in both local planning authorities and private practice gives her a practical and well-rounded perspective, enabling her to provide clear, strategic advice across a wide range of development projects.

Expertise

Gill has expertise in all aspects of development management, with particular experience in residential, leisure, heritage, education and renewable energy projects. Her work spans bespoke private client developments, major residential schemes for national developers, and commercial and renewable energy projects across the UK.

She advises on planning strategy, site appraisals, planning applications, appeals and lawful development matters, helping clients navigate complex planning issues and achieve successful outcomes. Gill also advises private clients and resident groups on planning representations.

Gill is known for her collaborative, pragmatic and results-focused approach. She has served on the Royal Town Planning Institute’s Conduct and Disciplinary Panel since 2024 and regularly contributes to industry panels, podcasts and webinars on topics including heritage, planning reform and urban regeneration.

Experience

Prior to joining Bell Cornwell, Gill held roles in local government, including at St Albans District Council and Ealing Council, alongside positions within planning, heritage, sustainability and multi-disciplinary consultancies.

Her local authority experience includes work on flagship projects such as the St Albans Museum + Gallery, Sopwell House Spa, and a range of residential and commercial developments across St Albans, Harpenden and the surrounding area.

Education

Gill is a Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and holds a Diploma in Town Planning and a BA (Hons) in Urban Studies and Planning from the University of Sheffield.

Kristina was a massive help for me. She understood my query right from the beginning and helped me through everything. Great communication and super helpful with prompt updates and support, I couldn’t recommend her more. Will certainly be using her and the company in the future.

Luke Ullyot

We are extremely happy with the result which wouldn’t have happened without Bell Cornwell’s involvement.

Alison Rowland

Atlantic View Crematorium Consortium

It’s been an absolute pleasure working with you on all the various projects we’ve been involved with together. Amazing professionalism, great attention to detail, and just so nice to work with.

Mike Bellamy

Director

Bellamy Transport Consultancy Ltd

Thank you for all your hard work, you have been very thorough and a pleasure to work with

Carl Lindsay

Developer

Iver – Buckinghamshire

Clear, realistic advice with a personalised service

I work in a friendly atmosphere with likeminded people every day.

Peter Thomas

Principal Planner

Two weeks in, I would have to say that my favourite thing is the people. Without any exception, the team has been unbelievably welcoming.

Karen Tipper

Senior Associate

Bell Cornwell’s culture makes it a wonderful place to work. I love working with a team that truly values their employees and colleagues on a personal level.

Caitlin Howland

Business Support Manager

Achieving positive results for our clients is always satisfying and being able to do this work alongside such great people, adds to the enjoyment.

Rebekah Jubb

Partner

I have incredibly supportive and talented colleagues, everyone in the business is there to help you improve.

Geoff Megarity

Associate

The work is challenging, varied and rewarding. It is a great atmosphere being part of a remarkable team.

Dan Rogers

Partner

There are lots of opportunities to get involved in different kinds of projects – it means you learn a lot rapidly, and the work stays interesting.

Brigid Taylor

Associate

We wouldn’t have got the scheme through without your planning expertise, problem solving abilities and professionalism, especially when engaging with the council planning team. Thank you for your unwavering support and for answering all my questions over the last couple of years.

Dean Sarson

Homeowner

St Leonard’s Church Hall – Devon

A heartfelt thank you for the diligent and efficient way you conducted every element of our planning application and took it through to a successful appeal. We were very impressed with the way that you so quickly helped us solve a long-standing problem.

John Wicksteed

Landowner

Polhawn Fort – Cornwall

Thank you to you and your team for the outstanding result we achieved. I admit there have been many times during this process where it has felt like an impossible task, but thanks to your commitment and dedication we have finally seen the fruits of our hard work.

Michael Shwartz

Zed Homes Ltd

Alperton – London

You have been a great help and we are delighted with what you have been able to achieve for us. We think you have done the impossible!

Ali Demin

Landowner and Farmer

Hardwick Park Goose Fayre – Surrey

Thank you so much for all your comprehensive and speedy work to get this planning permission through. We are absolutely delighted and will now be able to really enjoy our property.

Mary-Ann Swan

Homeowner

Garden Building – Devon

We are very pleased with the work you completed for us, going above and beyond in what was clearly a difficult application.

Mark Livingstone

Homeowner

Nately Scures – Hampshire

Bell Cornwell cares for their employees, offering flexibility, support and a positive work environment.

Ami Hughes

Finance Manager

Thank you for your professionalism, courtesy and understanding in achieving the required permission – a result, in truth, beyond my wildest expectation.

Mark Taylor

Land/Estate Owner

Hatt Common – Berkshire

Thank you for your effort and the expertise you provided. We certainly had the right person acting for us. Efficient, really pleasant and very professional – a great combination.

David Brimblecombe

Residents Group

Loxwood Clay Pit – West Sussex

The work is challenging; the team is incredibly friendly and you always feel completely valued as an employee.

Alex Yearsley

Principal Planner

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