Planning firm celebrates national recognition

A Newcastle-based planning consultancy has been shortlisted for two national awards.

DPP Planning has secured a place on the shortlist for the RTPI Awards for Planning Excellence 2025, recognised for its work on the Riverside Sunderland regeneration project, which includes the Maker & Faber office developments and the Wear Footbridge. 

The scheme saw the consultancy provide planning services for Legal & General and Landid as part of the wider Riverside Sunderland masterplan, delivering more than 14,000sq metres of office space.

Alongside the project nomination, the company has also been shortlisted for Planning Consultancy of the Year, placing it among the top nine large planning practices in the UK. 

The submission highlighted DPP’s broad portfolio across multiple regions, strong client feedback and consistent delivery of successful planning outcomes.

The entry also showcased the firm’s commitment to developing its people, from graduate recruitment through to senior leadership pathways, as well as its focus on training, wellbeing and corporate social responsibility. 

Gareth Hooper, chief executive of DPP Planning, said: “Being shortlisted for Planning Consultancy of the Year and Excellence in Planning for a Successful Economy is fantastic national recognition of the work we do, the values we uphold, and most importantly the people who make DPP what it is.

“Our success reflects the strength of our team across the UK, balancing the needs of our clients with those of our people through genuine investment in development, wellbeing and culture. 

“This shortlisting is something everyone at DPP can take real pride in.”

Winners of the RTPI Awards for Planning Excellence will be announced in London tomorrow (November 27).

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