Director appointed to continue strategic growth at GIA

GIA is pleased to announce the appointment of Barney Soanes-Cundle as Director. This strategic appointment further strengthens the firm’s expertise in Rights of Light, as well as Daylight and Sunlight consultancy.

Barney joins the business with over 10 years’ experience specialising in Rights of Light and Daylight and Sunlight, supporting developers, architects and property owners across a wide range of complex urban schemes. His experience spans residential, commercial and mixed-use developments, where he has provided expert advice to help clients navigate planning, design and neighbourly matters whilst maintaining development viability.

Throughout his career, Barney has worked on numerous high-profile projects with leading property clients, combining technical expertise with a highly commercial and solution-focused approach. His ability to balance technical analysis with practical development considerations has enabled project teams to unlock challenging sites and confidently progress schemes.

Projects Barney has advised on include:

  • Heart of Hale masterplan on behalf of Related Argent
  • College Road, Croydon on behalf of Tide Construction
  • Coventry City Centre South on behalf of Shearer Property Group & Hill Group

In his new role, Barney will be based in London, working closely with the wider team to support clients from early feasibility through to planning and delivery, ensuring that Daylight and Sunlight, as well as Rights of Light considerations, are addressed in a commercially pragmatic and collaborative way.

Stephen Friel, Chief Commercial Officer said:

“Barney is a fantastic addition to the team. His depth of experience in Rights of Light and Daylight and Sunlight, combined with a clear understanding of the commercial realities of development, will further strengthen the advice we provide to our clients.”

Barney commented:

“I’m excited to be joining GIA and contributing to the continued growth of the business. With increasing pressure on urban sites, commercially focused advice around Rights of Light and Daylight and Sunlight is more important than ever. I look forward to supporting clients in unlocking opportunities and progressing their developments.”

Barney can be reached at barney.soanes-cundle@gia.uk.com.