A FIRM that helps get people on the property ladder has welcomed an award-winning planner into its team.

Louise Cutts has joined Vail Williams' Southampton team after 20 years in the property industry where she was recognised with a community regeneration award for her work on the Velmore estate in Chandlers Ford and Monksbrook estate in Eastleigh.

Louise spent 20 years working in the public sector, including 10 years as a principal planner in Eastleigh Borough Council's major applications team before moving into the private sector in 2014.

During her time at the council she was responsible for transforming the former Travis Perkins site into 100 new homes. She also worked on plans for the Vue cinema and bowling complex and the Travelodge in central Eastleigh.

This work has given her an in-depth understanding of the planning process and consultation with the public and councillors.

Louise said: “I’ve always adopted a creative, win-win attitude to professional challenges, and that’s the approach I’m going to maintain and develop to get the best results for my new clients.

“We’ve formed a very talented team here in Southampton with skills in a wide variety of commercial property disciplines. Vail Williams has a strong reputation for its expertise, so I’m very proud to be on board.”

She will be joining Vail Williams in Ocean Way, Southampton.