Holly is a Heritage & Townscape Consultant with a background in Town Planning. She completed her undergraduate degree in Geography and Urban Planning at the University of Birmingham, where her dissertation focused on the changing historic fabric of Digbeth.
Upon graduating she started her career at a global engineering consultancy and led planning applications through both the Planning Act 2008 and the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. Holly is also skilled in stakeholder engagement and communications and has undertaken various secondment roles, including with Birmingham City Council during the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Alongside her work in Town Planning, Holly has been an enthusiastic volunteer within the historic built environment. During her time living in the Jewellery Quarter, she was a Heritage Research Volunteer for the Jewellery Quarter Townscape Heritage Programme, and she is currently a Buildings at Risk Volunteer for the West Midlands Historic Buildings Trust.
What is your favourite city?
I have too many favourites to choose from! However, I recently took a trip to Bath and was fascinated by the history of the city – from Roman ruins to beautifully preserved Georgian architecture, it’s hard not to love!
What is your favourite building?
I love many of the buildings in the Jewellery Quarter, but one of my favourites has to be the Argent Centre on Legge Lane. Originally a pen manufactory (which also hosted Turkish Baths!), the building was restored during my time at the Jewellery Quarter Townscape Heritage Programme, and I remember walking past every day and watching the process of the conservation take place.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I’m an avid reader, and I am slowly but surely adding to my home library collection! I also help to run a Book Club in the Jewellery Quarter. I love to travel, and recently got back from an adventure in the Arctic Circle and was lucky enough to see the northern lights three times!
