Global real estate firm Avison Young has announced that Brian Kelly has joined the Practice as Principal and Head of Planning for Ireland.
Previously Head of Planning at Turley, Kelly will bring with him over 20 years of experience in Ireland’s urban planning landscape. He is a chartered member of both the Irish Planning Institute and the Royal Town Planning Institute, specialising in urban regeneration and new neighbourhood projects.
In his former role, Kelly led planning teams in Dublin, Belfast and Derry, to deliver high profile major mixed use and residential projects, office schemes, hotel developments and infrastructure projects.
Recently he has worked in partnership with local authorities nationwide on a portfolio of masterplan, urban framework and planning research projects, advocating an integrated multi-service approach. Publication of the Planning and Development Bill last week underscores the importance of continuous investment in town planning services and Kelly has experience of supporting clients through planning system reform. In his previous role he provided training to elected members and advised project teams on navigating changes to the planning system, helping them to adapt quickly to new planning requirements.
At Avison Young, Kelly will work across the Belfast and Dublin offices. Responsible for leading on the delivery of the Practice’s integrated town planning and placemaking services, he will ensure the best possible outcomes for both clients and the communities affected by growth and change.
Fergal Burke, Managing Director Ireland, Avison Young, said: “Brian is a fantastic addition to the team in Ireland, as we continue to invest in the places we create, and secure the best outcomes for our clients. Brian brings extensive experience in the planning process with a proven track record of successful project delivery in Ireland.”
Brian Kelly, Principal and Head of Planning, Ireland, Place, Avison Young, said: “I am delighted to take on this new role at Avison Young, and am a strong advocate of the company’s approach, drawing upon international best practice and applying local insight to devise viable and innovative planning solutions. I look forward to continuing to generate real economic, environmental, and social value in our towns and cities, as part of a team of Place experts.”
Jo Davis, Principal, Managing Director Place, UK Executive Chair, Avison Young said: “We are thrilled to have Brian join us. He brings with him a huge amount of expertise, a detailed understanding of the markets that we operate in and a real desire and hunger to help drive the Avison Young business forward. But more than that, he wants to achieve what we want to achieve; for Clients, places and communities. I look forward to working with Brian, and adding further to our capability in Ireland in due course.”
