The Team
Charmain Hawkins
Charmain Hawkins joined Beacon in June 2008 as an Associate. Charmain first qualified as a Geographer before doing a Masters in Town Planner. After graduating she worked in the busy development control sections of the south coast cities of Portsmouth and Southampton. Whilst at Southampton she developed her interest in conservation working on some fascinating 19th century buildings in the former dock area, including a hotel where the first class passengers staged before embarking on their cruises. She worked on the creation of two new conservation areas within early garden suburb developments of the city. Since moving to East Anglia she has worked as a Conservation Officer in two Local Authorities before joining the private sector. She has developed an interest in vernacular architecture and is seeking to set up a Cambridgeshire Group. Visiting sites enables her other passion of driving her MX5’s to be met. In her spare time Charmain is usually working on a needlework project ranging from knitting, bobbin lace to embroidery.
Jenni Neilson
Jenni Neilson joined Beacon in September 2008 as a Senior Consultant. After graduating with a degree in architectural and urban conservation, Jenni subsequently undertook post-graduate studies in Urban Design. Jenni initially worked at Darlington Borough and Leicester City Councils on urban regeneration projects before joining Cambridge City Council to work in the Conservation Team which was led by Jon Burgess. There she developed her fledgling conservation skills working on a diverse range of projects including the redevelopment of two large shopping complexes in the historic city centre, the perfect job for a girl that likes to shop! Despite enjoying her time at Cambridge City Council, Jenni decided that a move to the private sector would broaden her skills base. Since making the leap, she has gained significant planning experience and further developed her conservation expertise.
Jenny Page
Jenny Page joined Beacon in March 2009. Jenny spent 13 years at Cambridge City Council in development control gaining considerable experience in handling applications and appeals. She then moved to the private sector and joined the Carter Jonas Planning division. This enabled her to acquire the essential knowledge and experience of the commercial development world. Jenny handled a wide range of planning projects including strategic land promotion and applications and appeal work. At the time she left the company she was a partner and Head of Planning in the Cambridge office. She brings a wealth of private and public sector experience to Beacon.
