Urban & Master Planning
for Landlords & Developers
We provide strategic urban design and master planning services for landlords and developers, delivering robust, policy-led solutions from concept through to delivery. Our in-house architectural team focuses on optimising site capacity, ensuring planning compliance, and creating well-structured, sustainable developments that deliver long-term value.
SHLAA Sites & Brownfield Land
Create mixed use open plan spaces for your tenants.
Transform brownfield and SHLAA sites into vibrant, mixed-use developments. Create multifunctional spaces that work for commercial, residential, and co-working purposes. Our approach ensures open, flexible layouts that meet planning requirements while delivering environments that people want to live, work, and gather in.
Civil Engineering & Drainage
Looking to maximise the performance of your site?
Our civil engineering team delivers technically robust solutions to maximise the performance and value of your development. We provide site-wide drainage design, groundworks, and infrastructure planning to ensure compliance with local authority requirements and sustainable urban development standards. From feasibility assessments and flood risk mitigation to utilities coordination and detailed technical design, we support your project at every stage to achieve safe, efficient, and buildable developments.
Ecology & Biodiversity
We have interior designers in-house to make the most efficient use of the space.
Most architects tend to cram on all plans for your extension onto one large A1 page which may work sometimes for planning but they are not always readable. We like to put each plan on separate A3 size pages which means they can scale bigger and fill much more of the page.
Urban & Master Planning – By the Numbers
Delivering Smart, Sustainable Developments
We help landlords and developers realise the full potential of their sites. From initial feasibility and master planning through to detailed design, our team creates well-structured, sustainable urban spaces that are both commercially viable and built to last.
96%
Our urban and master planning proposals are highly successful, with a 96% approval rate from local planning authorities, reflecting our experience in delivering compliant, well-considered designs.
89%
Most clients who engage us at the strategic planning stage continue with us into detailed design and technical drawings, ensuring projects are fully coordinated and build-ready.
81%
A significant proportion of our clients also commission us for full project delivery, from design through construction, for a seamless design-and-build experience.
“Informed and updated throughout”
— Ashley Scott
Brilliant service start to finish. Got my project through planning and kept me informed and updated throughout. Highly recommend.
Our Portfolio
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the most common questions we receive from landlords, developers, and planning teams about urban and master planning projects. If you don’t see your question below, feel free to contact us, and we’ll be happy to help.
Do I need planning permission for a development?
Whether planning permission is required depends on the scope and nature of your development. Minor works may fall under permitted development rights, but larger developments, changes in land use, or significant alterations to site layouts typically require full planning approval from your local authority. Our team can assess your project and advise on the necessary permissions.
Do I need detailed technical plans at the planning stage?
At the planning stage, conceptual and strategic plans are usually sufficient. Detailed technical drawings, including civil engineering, drainage, utilities, and infrastructure layouts, are typically required for building control, construction, and implementation phases.
What is the cost of urban masterplanning?
Costs vary depending on the site, scale, and scope of works. Key elements to consider include:
- Site surveys and feasibility studies
- Civil engineering and drainage design
- Planning application fees
- Architectural and urban design consultancy
- Infrastructure coordination and technical reports
We work with you to provide accurate cost projections for all stages of your project.
Can I convert land or buildings into mixed-use developments?
Yes. Brownfield and underutilised sites can often be redeveloped for mixed-use purposes, including residential, commercial, and community spaces. Early consultation with planning authorities and a clear masterplan are essential to ensure compliance with zoning, density, and infrastructure requirements.
How long does the planning process take?
Timelines vary depending on the complexity of the project and the local authority’s processes. Strategic masterplanning approvals may take several months, while larger mixed-use developments can require phased submissions. Early engagement with planning officers often helps streamline the process.
Can any site be redeveloped?
Not all sites are suitable for redevelopment. Constraints such as flood risk, heritage designations, contamination, and planning restrictions can limit options. Our team can assess viability and provide strategies to maximise site potential.
What is an Article 4 direction?
An Article 4 direction is a planning tool used by local authorities to restrict certain types of development that could negatively impact the character or density of an area. It removes or limits permitted development rights and may affect how sites can be redeveloped or converted.
What factors influence approval for masterplanning projects?
Local planning policies, site context, environmental considerations, infrastructure capacity, and sustainability measures all play a key role. High-quality, well-structured proposals that demonstrate compliance with these requirements are far more likely to receive approval.
What are the key considerations for sustainable urban development?
Sustainability is critical in modern masterplanning. Key factors include:
Green spaces and biodiversity enhancements
Efficient land use and density
Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS)
Access to public transport and active travel routes
Energy-efficient building design
Can any site be included in a masterplan?
Not all sites are suitable for inclusion in a masterplan. Site constraints, local policy, and infrastructure limitations may restrict options. Early assessment and consultation ensure that your site can be integrated effectively into a cohesive development strategy.
