Business Details
50 Years
experience
Expert Architects in Colchester
Based in Colchester, Essex, we are a passionate consultancy that provides integrated architecture, urban design, and town planning services. Led by David Rose, Stephen Sanderson, and Andrew Ransome, we have recently relocated to the new neighbourhood centre at Chesterwell, Colchester, positioning ourselves at the heart of a community we helped design. Established in 1976 as an architectural practice, we expanded to include town planning in the 1990s, creating a multidisciplinary approach to development. Our integrated services ensure planning and design strategies align from the outset, delivering high-quality places ranging from large-scale urban extensions to bespoke individual schemes. We pride ourselves on a legacy of transforming historic sites, such as the Truman Brewery, into thriving mixed-use spaces.Our ethos centres on good design as a means to achieve social, economic, and environmental goals, creating sustainable places that foster community. We serve clients including developers, landowners, and local councils across Essex, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, and Kent, offering a personal service grounded in creative and technical expertise. Our work in securing planning consents for residential and commercial developments, including challenging Green Belt projects, reflects our strategic approach and deep understanding of planning processes. We combine architectural innovation with practical solutions, ensuring each project adds value while respecting its context. With over four decades of experience, we remain committed to delivering excellence in the built environment.
Services
Architectural Design
Town Planning
Urban Design
Residential Development
Commercial Development
Planning Appeals
Green Belt Projects
Technical Design
Public Consultations
Case Studies
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- We offer an integrated approach to architecture and town planning since 1976.
- Our team has secured planning consents for complex Green Belt developments.
- We provide tailored solutions for residential, commercial, and heritage projects.
- Our expertise spans feasibility assessments, appeals, and technical design.
- We combine sustainability with design excellence to create lasting communities.
Associations and certifications
- Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI)
Services
Architectural Design
We provide full architectural services from concept to completion. Our approach focuses on creating practical, inspiring buildings tailored to client needs and site context. With expertise in new homes, conversions, and commercial developments, we ensure designs add value while meeting regulatory requirements. Our team combines creativity with technical precision to deliver sustainable solutions across Essex and the South-East.
Town Planning
Our planning services include strategy development, application submissions, and appeals. We specialise in navigating complex processes for residential and commercial projects, including Green Belt developments. With over 20 years of experience, we secure permissions for projects ranging from rural veterinary practices to urban extensions. Our team manages stakeholder engagement and prepares robust submissions to maximise approval chances.
Urban Design
We create cohesive urban environments through strategic masterplanning and design. Our work focuses on sustainable development that enhances community spaces and economic viability. Projects include residential estates, mixed-use developments, and public realm improvements. We balance functionality with aesthetic appeal, ensuring developments integrate seamlessly with their surroundings while meeting modern sustainability standards.
Residential Development
We specialise in residential schemes from single dwellings to large-scale housing developments. Our services cover feasibility studies, planning applications, and architectural design. We have particular expertise in Green Belt projects and rural exception sites. By understanding local plan requirements and market needs, we deliver developments that maximise value while respecting environmental and community considerations.
Commercial Development
Our commercial architecture covers offices, retail units, warehouses, and leisure facilities. We design functional spaces that meet business needs while complying with planning regulations. Projects include conversions of existing buildings and new constructions. Our team ensures developments are economically viable, sustainable, and adaptable to future requirements, supporting long-term business growth.
People
David Rose
One of A D P's founding directors, David Rose has over four decades of experience in architecture and urban design. He has led numerous high-profile projects, including the regeneration of historic sites and large-scale residential developments.
Stephen Sanderson
Stephen Sanderson brings extensive expertise in town planning and development strategy. As a director, he focuses on delivering sustainable urban extensions and navigating complex planning processes for residential and commercial clients.
Andrew Ransome
Planning Director
Andrew Ransome is a chartered town planner with over 20 years' experience. He specialises in strategic planning solutions for challenging projects in rural and urban areas, including Green Belt developments and planning appeals.
Questions
What areas do you cover for architectural services?
We provide architectural services across Essex, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, and London.
Can you help with planning permission in the Green Belt?
Yes, we have extensive experience securing planning permissions for residential and commercial projects in the Green Belt.
Do you handle listed building consents?
Yes, we specialise in sympathetic extensions and alterations to listed buildings, ensuring compliance with heritage regulations.
What types of commercial developments do you work on?
We work on offices, retail units, warehouses, leisure facilities, and conversions of existing commercial buildings.
How do you approach urban design projects?
We focus on creating sustainable, cohesive urban environments through strategic masterplanning and community-focused design.
Can you assist with planning appeals?
Yes, our planning consultants prepare robust appeal submissions and have a strong track record of successful outcomes.
