Tom Watkins

Becky undertakes all of the cemetery and crematorium planning applications on behalf of our clients, with over a 95% success rate achieved on applications managed by CDS. Becky also undertakes all co-ordination of the in-house delivery teams and external consultants to ensure a seamless delivery process, whereby all parties are in total connection to each other’s needs through a centrally co-ordinated system managed by Becky.

Callum has recently joined CDS as a Senior Engineer with over 10 years experience in the Site Investigation industry, undertaking a wide range of contaminated land and geotechnical assessments on various sites including residential developments, commercial properties, and brownfield land. Callum has a vast array of experience in the organisation of both small- and large-scale site investigation works and has a background in waste classification work. Callum’s experience will expand the service offering to our clients.

Richard joins CDS with over 25 years’ experience of working in the construction industry in various management roles. Richard has taken the role of lead client-side project manager on projects varying in value from £100k – £25m + across the whole life cycle of projects from conception to handover and occupation. Richard has worked across a variety of sectors including health, leisure, heritage and education.

Ben is a Senior Planning Projects Manager with over five years at CDS, overseeing crematorium and cemetery projects from inception through planning approval (RIBA Stages 0-3) and managing all aspects of project delivery. Ben leads the planning team and coordinates design teams while liaising closely with clients to ensure seamless project progression. He also drives CDS’s ‘Green Agenda’ and leads research initiatives on emerging technologies and decarbonisation strategies for clients. Ben holds a First-Class Honours degree from Coventry University.

Paul, Dip Des DIT, is experienced in producing 2D and 3D AutoCAD drawings for various disciplines of the company. He works closely with the Landscape Architect and environment team to produce master plans for planning, site layouts and drainage management schemes.

Emma became part of CDS in 2021 as the Office Manager, where she plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless daily operations. Her responsibilities include office processes, coordinating meetings and overseeing invoicing. Most importantly, Emma serves as the primary liaison between our clients and project teams, ensuring clear communication and timely, effective client management. Her dedication ensures that every client receives exceptional service and support throughout their engagement with us.

Eliot, BSc (Hons), graduated from Loughborough University with an BSc in Geography in 2013. He joined CDS in 2023 following four years as a planner at two well-known fast-food brands where he identified target areas for new openings and put together cases for new stores in both the UK and ROI. He also supported change of use planning applications where required. Prior to this Eliot worked at a Town Planning Consultancy as a GIS Analyst for 4 years. It was here where he developed his passion for planning.

Adam graduated from Coventry University with a 2:1 Ba (Hons) in Geography. Adam joined CDS after 18 months in the public sector where he worked with partners to deliver a review of the Safer Lincolnshire Partnership and focussed on improving sustainability in the sector for years to come. Adam has joined the growing Planning Team at CDS and will be assisting with feasibility and planning including the refurbishment of existing crematoria and the green alternatives to traditional methods of cremation.

Jessica graduated from the University of Lincoln with a Ba in Geography and developed an understanding of sustainability and environmental matters. Jessica later graduated from the London School of Economic with a MSc in Global Health Policy to further understand policy and its impact on communities, alongside her undergraduate knowledge. With a background including GIS analysis, evidence synthesis, and report-style writing, Jessica has begun her career with CDS to retain real-life experience by assisting with planning and feasibility to help develop cemeteries and crematoria for communities.

Cassie joined The CDS Group as Finance Manager in October 2024.  Cassie is CIMA part qualified and has over twenty years experience working within finance departments for small to large organisations.  Cassie plays a key role within The CDS Group, effectively and precisely managing the financial aspects of the business.

Tom is an experienced geo-environmental consultant with a strong background in data analysis and ground investigations. With an MSci in Geology from the University of Bristol, he specialises in environmental and groundwater risk assessments and site supervision. His expertise includes GIS, modelling, and regulatory compliance. Tom has also presented at academic conferences and contributed to published research in seismology.

Shikha is a Chartered Principal Planner with over 10 years of experience in both the private and public sectors of planning. She holds an MA in Spatial Planning from Birmingham City University and a BA (Hons) in Business with Urban Development from the University of Westminster. Her role involves assisting The CDS Group’s clients in obtaining planning permission for crematoria and cemeteries by selecting optimal sites through feasibility studies and market analysis, and then managing the planning submission process on the client’s behalf. Additionally, Shikha evaluates potential sites for event venues and project-manages the discharge of planning conditions for clients.

Georgina joins The CDS Group with three years’ experience working in a multidisciplinary private practice. She has an MA in Landscape Architecture and a Professional Diploma in Garden Design & Horticulture. With a passion for design and planting, Georgina also gained a silver Royal Horticultural Society medal for her show garden at BBC Gardeners’ World Live. She has designed a wide variety of landscapes and assists the team across all the RIBA work stages.

Lettie joined CDS as head of HR to keep all staff in-line, provide encouragement and to ensure all staff ate the correct food and enjoyed a daily walk whatever the weather.