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1. Introducing our new MD: Pete Whipp on growth, culture & opportunity at DM
20:59||Season 3, Ep. 1Welcome to the DM U&I podcast, where we explore the people, ideas and opportunities shaping Dalcour Maclaren.In this episode, James Neil, DM CEO, sit down with Pete Whipp, our new Managing Director, to discuss his journey into the business, his career in large-scale environmental and infrastructure consulting, and his vision for the years aheadYou’ll hear about:Pete’s career and why he chose DMHear how Pete progressed from EIA consultant to Ops Director of a 1,400-strong team at RSK, working on major UK projects including highways, energy networks, HS2 and Crossrail and why the opportunity, culture and ambition at DM convinced him to make the leap.Opportunities for DM: multidisciplinary growthPete shares his early impressions of DM and the potential in expanding our multidisciplinary offer from Environment & Planning to Geomatics, stakeholder engagement, archaeology, ecology and more. He explains why clearer market positioning and sector-wide visibility are key to unlocking that growth.People, leadership and building a high-performing organisationWith DM continuing its year-on-year significant expansion, Pete reflects on the importance of right-people-right-roles, leadership capability, and creating an inclusive, inspiring culture that attracts and develops the next generation of experts. We also explore the realities of today’s recruitment market and how DM can remain an employer of choice.External pressures, policy change and market disruptionThe discussion dives into how UK policy shifts, infrastructure reform and environmental regulation are reshaping the consultancy world. Pete highlights what the new Planning & Infrastructure Bill may mean for clients and the opportunities emerging from grid transformation, water sector challenges and renewable energy expansion.Innovation, technology and the future of consultancyFrom data-heavy workflows to AI-driven decision-making, Pete talks to James about the critical role of innovation and why embracing new technology is essential for DM to stay ahead, deliver faster, and bring even greater value to clients across utilities and infrastructure.Looking ahead: hydrogen, transport, and the next wave of projectsWe unpack what’s coming next, including hydrogen networks, carbon capture and storage, transport corridors, major airport expansions and the long-term transformation of the UK grid. But also, how DM can position itself early, at the very start of these national programmes.Join us as we get to know Pete, hear his fresh perspective on DM’s future, and explore the exciting opportunities ahead across utilities and infrastructure. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, consultancy growth, and the evolving landscape of the UK’s most vital sectors.Dalcour Maclaren is the land and environmental consultancy of choice for the utility and infrastructure sectors in the UK and Ireland. We deliver land access and acquisition, environment and heritage surveys and services, stakeholder engagement, geomatics and spatial data analysis.Talk to us about: • land assembly • property development • environmental & planning • geomatics • land surveying & referencing • power networks • power generation • telecoms • water management • transport • flood & coastal resilienceConnect with James on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/james-neil-dalcour-maclaren/Connect with Pete on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petewhipp/#Utilities #Infrastructure #LandConsultancy #EnvironmentalPlanning #DMGrowth
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8. Expert witness: the role you didn't know you wanted to do
29:54||Season 2, Ep. 8Welcome to the DM U&I podcast, where we delve into the intricacies of expert witness work at Dalcour Maclaren. In this episode, DM CEO James Neil has an insightful discussion with DM consultant Colin Smith and DM Director Jonathan Smith, seasoned professionals with extensive experience in expert witness cases.We talk about:Role of Expert Witnesses: Find out what an expert witness does and the critical role of expert witnesses in dispute resolution, particularly in determining compensation and the validity of compulsory powers.Dispute Examples: Jonathan and Colin share examples of disputes they've handled, including major infrastructure projects and the Olympic Park case, highlighting the importance of expert testimony in resolving complex issues.Preparation and Challenges: The conversation emphasises the importance of thorough preparation for expert witnesses, detailing the challenges and the satisfaction of successfully defending a position in court.Tribunal and Inquiry Processes: We provide a detailed overview of the tribunal and inquiry processes, including the formalities and the roles of various participants.The future of expert witnesses: mentoring and training: Colin and Jonathan discuss the need for mentoring and training to encourage new professionals to enter the field of expert witness work.Join us as we explore the fascinating world of expert witness work, its challenges, and the rewarding experiences it offers. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the legal and technical aspects of dispute resolution in the utility and infrastructure sectors and wants to join us in campaigning for encouraging our senior teams to become expert witnesses.Daclour Maclaren is the land and environmental consultancy of choice for the utility and infrastructure sectors in the UK and IrelandTalk to us about:• land assembly • property development • environmental & planning • geomatics • land surveying & referencing • power networks • power generation • telecoms • water management • transport • flood & coastal resilienceConnect with James on LinkedIn
7. Stakeholder Engagement by DM: why it’s more than a tick-box exercise
17:00||Season 2, Ep. 7In this episode of the Dalcour Maclaren U&I Podcast, CEO James Neil sits down with Director and Stakeholder Engagement Lead Beth Motley, who has launched this new set of services in 2025.Theirs is an honest conversation about why stakeholder engagement matters more than ever in today’s infrastructure projects.Beth brings more than 20 years of experience across construction, transport, energy, and utilities, and shares her journey from children’s publishing to leading engagement on some of the UK’s most complex schemes - from National Grid’s Northwest Coast Connections to major solar developments and Heathrow expansion.Together, James and Beth unpack what stakeholder engagement really means, why it’s far from a ‘tick-box exercise’, and how listening to communities, MPs, councils, and even the media can shape better outcomes for projects and the people they affect. They explore the misconceptions, the challenges, and the opportunities for collaboration between land, planning and engagement teams - and why getting it right from the start is critical.If you’re curious about how infrastructure projects navigate public perception, legislative requirements and reputational risk, this episode is packed with insight. Plus, you’ll hear why Beth’s determination (including rowing the Atlantic!) makes her the perfect fit for DM’s vision to deliver smarter, integrated solutions for our clients.U&I is your go-to podcast for the utility and infrastructure sectors. Brought to you by Dalcour Maclaren, it’s packed full of industry insight and expert perspectives. Join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities in:· land delivery and property management· environment and planning· geomatics· land surveying· land referencing· stakeholder engagementWe discuss complex issues in an honest and practical way, from policy updates to planning and project delivery.For more information on DM, you can email James or Beth directly: James.neil@dalcourmaclaren.combeth.motley@dalcourmaclaren.com Follow us at: LinkedIn: / dalcour-maclaren
6. Powering up: reform, pressure and progress in the electricity sector
31:17||Season 2, Ep. 6In this episode of the U&I podcast, James Neil is joined by Oliver Heselton, a seasoned expert in utilities and infrastructure, for a candid conversation about the electricity sector’s biggest challenges - and the reforms that could shape its future.With over 30 years of experience, including nearly 15 at National Grid, Oliver recently joined us at DM and brings deep insight into the pressures facing transmission and distribution networks. From the surge in renewable generation and data centre demand to the complexities of land rights and planning reform, Oliver and James explore what it will take to meet the UK’s ambitious 2030 and 2050 net zero targets.This episode covers everything from the impact of offshore wind and solar connections, to the latest on CPO and DCO reform, the Electricity Act, and the push for faster, fairer infrastructure delivery. And yes, we talk about Yorkshire thrift and media training too.At Dalcour Maclaren, we’re proud to support the electricity sector in navigating legislative change, stakeholder engagement and land strategy to deliver the infrastructure that powers the UK.U&I is your go-to podcast for the utility and infrastructure sectors. Brought to you by Dalcour Maclaren, it’s packed full of industry insight and expert perspectives.Join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities in:land delivery and property managementenvironment and planninggeomaticsland surveyingland referencingstakeholder engagementWe discuss complex issues in an honest and practical way, from policy updates to planning and project delivery.For more information on DM, you can email James or Oliver directly: james.neil@dalcourmaclaren.comoliver.heselton@dalcourmaclaren.comFollow us at:LinkedIn: /dalcour-maclaren-chartered-surveyorsInstagram: /dalcourmaclarenFacebook: /dalcourmaclarencareers5. The challenges that lie ahead for The Water Industry, including pollution and how to fix it? (with Gareth Smith, Severn Trent Water)
33:54||Season 2, Ep. 5In this episode of the U&I podcast, James Neil is joined by Gareth Smith, Town Planning Manager at Severn Trent Water, for a deep dive into the challenges - and opportunities - facing the water industry now we are in enter AMP8.With more than 15 years of experience, Gareth brings a wealth of insight into how Severn Trent is tackling some of the UK’s most pressing infrastructure issues. From sewer overflows and river quality to planning reform and workforce transformation, this conversation explores the scale of the task ahead - and the passion driving it.We cover everything from £15 billion investment plans and smart networks powered by AI, to the importance of apprenticeships and the need for planning system reform. And we even talk about car gearboxes.At Dalcour Maclaren, we’re proud to support Severn Trent and the wider water sector in delivering critical infrastructure that benefits communities and the environment.U&I is your go-to podcast for the utility and infrastructure sectors. Brought to you by Dalcour Maclaren, it’s packed full of industry insight and expert perspectives.Join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities in:land delivery and property managementenvironment and planninggeomaticsland surveyingland referencingstakeholder engagementWe discuss complex issues in an honest and practical way, from policy updates to planning and project delivery.For more information on DM, you can email James directly: james.neil@dalcourmaclaren.comFollow us at: LinkedIn: / dalcour-maclaren-chartered-surveyors Instagram: / dalcourmaclaren Facebook: / dalcourmaclarencareers4. Building trust to thrive: how we ensure our people are our priority
27:22||Season 2, Ep. 4Welcome to the DM U&I podcast, where we focus on the people who make our business thrive. We’re a people-focused business and fostering a supportive environment for all employees is a priority at DM. This episode delves into the critical topic of mental health, and how we encourage our people to bring their whole selves to work (and to want to come to work in the morning!)In this episode you’ll hear:Personal Stories: Guests Jade and Josh share their personal journeys and experiences with mental health at DM, emphasising the importance of breaking down barriers between personal and professional lives.Mental Health First Aid: Josh discusses his role as a mental health first aider and the evolution of mental health support within the company.Creating a Supportive Environment: The conversation highlights the importance of trust, inclusivity and honesty to achieve our ONETEAM goals.Long-Term Commitment: We’re on a journey and we’ve made a commitment to long-term employee wellbeing. Find out more about our progress and what we offer at DM.We believe fostering an open and supportive environment can lead to happier employees. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in creating a workplace where mental health is a priority and for those who want to work for a company that welcomes everyone.Dalcour Maclaren is the land and environmental consultancy of choice for the utility and infrastructure sectors in the UK and IrelandTalk to us about:• land assembly • property development • environmental & planning • geomatics • land surveying & referencing • power networks • power generation • telecoms • water management • transport • flood & coastal resilience You can follow James Neil on LinkedIn or email him directly: James Neil, CEO: james.neil@dalcourmaclaren.comFollow us at:LinkedIn: (1) Dalcour Maclaren: Overview | LinkedInInstagram: Dalcour Maclaren (@dalcourmaclaren) • Instagram photos and videosFacebook: Dalcour Maclaren | Bicester | Facebook3. Claimant Conflict and Mental Health
32:15||Season 2, Ep. 3In today's episode, we tackle a significant and often challenging aspect of the utility and infrastructure sectors: Claimant Conflict and Mental Health. As the world becomes busier and projects grow in scale, managing conflicts and ensuring the mental well-being of all stakeholders is more critical than ever. Joining CEO James Neil for this important discussion are Associate Director Pippa Wright and Project Manager Alasdair Breed. Pippa has extensive experience across various sectors, including water, power generation and infrastructure. Alasdair, relatively new to DM, brings a fresh perspective from his background in motor insurance and as a mental health first aider as part of his role at DM. Together, we talk about how DM approaches claimant conflict, emphasising the importance of transparent communication with landowners and the strategies used to support staff during these processes. From the complexities of large-scale projects, the consultation processes, and the legal frameworks involved, we'll discuss the human side of these projects, sharing real-life examples of conflicts and the measures taken to ensure the safety and mental health of DM's team members. Topics include dynamic risk assessments to bespoke training programmes, this podcast will provide insights into how DM prepares its staff to handle potentially difficult situations effectively. Whether you're a utility client, an infrastructure developer, or interested in the intersection of mental health and project management, this episode offers valuable perspectives on navigating the challenges of claimant conflict while prioritising mental wellbeing of everyone involved. At Dalcour Maclaren, we unlock consents for the utilities and infrastructure sector. U&I is your go-to podcast for the utility and infrastructure sectors, and is packed full of industry insight and expert perspectives. Join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities in: land and property development, environment and planning, geomatics, land surveying, land referencing - power networks - power generation - telecoms - water management - transport and infrastructure. We discuss complex issues in an honest and practical way, from policy updates to planning and project delivery. You can follow James Neil on LinkedIn or email him directly: James Neil, CEO: james.neil@dalcourmaclaren.com Alasdair Breed: alasdair.breed@dalcourmaclaren.com or LinkedInPippa Wright: Pippa.Wright@Dalcourmaclaren.com or LinkedInFollow us at: LinkedIn: (1) Dalcour Maclaren: Overview | LinkedInInstagram: Dalcour Maclaren (@dalcourmaclaren) • Instagram photos and videosFacebook: Dalcour Maclaren | Bicester | Facebook