Stephanie Baker

Stephanie joined Bell Cornwell in 2025 as an Associate. She brings a collaborative and solutions-focused approach, with a strong track record of navigating sensitive Planning issues across rural and heritage contexts.

Expertise

Stephanie has  expertise in rural Planning, heritage assets, and permitted development, particularly Class Q barn conversions. Her prior projects included oversight of several high-profile listed building projects.

She has contributed to national thought leadership on Planning including speaking at key events, having articles published in a range of journals and participating in academic research with the University of Reading. Her deep understanding of Planning policy, combined with practical management experience, enables her to guide clients through challenging applications with confidence.

Experience

Prior to joining Bell Cornwell, Stephanie gained 12 years of experience in local government, working at both Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and Hart District Council. She led Hart’s Development Management team, managing a department of 23 Planning professionals and overseeing a wide range of complex applications and strategic projects.

Education

Stephanie is a Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and holds a Master of Science in Spatial Planning and Development from Henley Business School. She also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Development and Coaching Sciences from Bournemouth University.