John Cole

John Cole, Principal, brings over 35 years of expertise across local government, town planning, and development. Renowned for his advocacy in the Land and Environment Court, John excels as a problem solver and skilled negotiator. His diverse background as a lecturer, solicitor, Council advocate, registered town planner, and certified practising planner provides him with comprehensive insights into development proposals and construction. Holding a degree in Commerce, he possesses a robust understanding of the economic and practical aspects of project approval processes. John's unique perspective, derived from representing both Councils and developers, allows him to deftly navigate the mutual goals of each party. His ability to reverse-engineer design concepts means he can offer tailored guidance that addresses every aspect of a project. Whether it's a simple home renovation or a large-scale residential and retail development, his early involvement often pre-empts potential issues. John is known for settling litigation matters promptly, enabling his clients to achieve their objectives without compromising on commercial viability while maintaining community trust. His passion for affordable housing solutions drives his interest in refining the planning system to better tackle prevailing challenges. John's expertise and approach ensure clients receive strategic advice that is both innovative and grounded in practicality.