PR firm Pagoda pushes into Newcastle market

Pagoda, the Edinburgh-based PR agency, has opened an office in Newcastle, bolstered its team and unveiled new clients.

The firm is expanding its planning and development division thanks to its success in managing pre-planning consultation and marketing communications for housebuilders, infrastructure projects and commercial developments.

Andrew Lester joins the firm as a non-board director, heading the new office covering north-east England.

Also coming on board is Gemma Richardson, who previously worked in planning consultancy and brings “wide public affairs skills” to the team. She will manage the PR programme for new client EDPR, developer of a 90-turbine offshore windfarm. Other recent wins include the Scottish Land Commission.

Managing director Angela Casey said: “Reaching into north-east England will build on our client base.”