A message from our Head of Higher Education
In a time of change for the sector, DPP can add value to University strategies, both through strategic Planning advice and future-proofing, as well as delivering projects on the ground which maximise campus performance.
DPP stands out with an exceptional track record in delivering successful higher education projects. We not only understand the distinct needs of the education sector but also anticipate and address the challenges encountered throughout the planning phase. Our empathetic approach ensures a smooth and efficient execution, supporting the project team every step of the way.
Having delivered numerous capital projects for 3 out of the 5 of the City’s Universities, DPP is proud to be in attendance on our ‘home turf’ at AUDE 2026 and to showcase, amongst others, a number of our projects delivered for the host institution – University of Leeds.
Industrious & wise
DPP has vast experience in further and higher education projects. We assist Universities in being Industrious through assisting on schemes which make campuses work harder, maximise staff presence and provide fit for purpose environments through decarbonisation, digitalization, safety and accessibility. We work sensitively to respond to Heritage issues; we advise on disposal and rationalisation.
We enable Estates Directors and their teams to be Wise by providing long-term Strategic planning advice, advocating for favourable allocations and shaping policies, and monitoring and influencing the local Planning landscape, to protect Universities’ interests.
Examples of our work are shown below
Image: The Esther Simpson Building, University of Leeds – DLA Architecture
INDUSTRIOUS
NORTH EAST SPACE SKILLS AND TECHNOLOGY CENTRE (NESST)
DPP secured consent for Northumbria University’s pioneering project, the North East Space Skills and Technology Centre (NESST). This visionary initiative involves constructing a 5 to 7 storey building, merging with the existing structures, to establish a cutting-edge hub for premier education and research.
Partnering with the UK Space Agency and Lockheed Martin, NESST, designed by Ryder Architecture, will replace the Wynne Jones building on Ellison Place, Newcastle. This dynamic centre will house various spaces for Northumbria University and Lockheed Martin, including satellite facilities, lecture theatres, and research labs.
NESST’s R&D endeavours will propel the UK and regional space sector forward, positioning the UK as a leader in satellite communications and space-based technologies. Economic forecasts anticipate significant job creation and economic growth.
DPP spearheaded pre-application dialogue with authorities and stakeholders, provided essential project advice, and secured planning permission with an impressive 10-week timeframe.
Image: Ryder Architecture
CARDIFF UNIVERSITY SPARK, INNOVATION CAMPUS
Client: Cardiff University
Project Value: £122m
DPP successfully secured planning consent for Cardiff University’s innovative Social Science Research Park project known as Spark, a cornerstone of the university’s £300m Innovation Campus. Situated on a former rail yard, Spark spans 12,000 square metres.
Designed by Hawkins\Brown, the building encourages interaction among diverse tenants, including researchers, entrepreneurs, and public sector leaders. Its iconic red Oculus staircase, traversing a slanting void, serves as a striking feature, instantly recognisable.
Spark integrates commercial units and laboratories, promoting knowledge exchange and economic growth by supporting spinouts and startups. As a premier social science research park, it facilitates partnerships to address societal challenges.
Navigating amendments to the original masterplan and outline planning consent, DPP worked closely with the University and multiple design teams to meet key deadlines. This involved submitting three separate planning applications and addressing legal undertakings for the pedestrian/cycle bridge, all within strict timeframes.
DPP effectively engaged with the public, local councillors, and Cardiff Council, securing all three consents within the required timeframe.
Image: Cardiff University / Will Scott Photography
UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS – CAMPUS IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMME
Client: University of Leeds
As part of the Campus Improvement Programme, DPP undertook a strategic review of 30+ proposals to advise and clarify on what did or did not need planning permission and Listed Building consent. We utilised our close relationship with the Council’s Conservation Officer. Subsequently we submitted and managed various planning and listed building consent applications to improve access, cycle parking and to enhance security across campus. DPP added real value to the Programme by significantly reducing the scope of survey and drawing work needed for the submissions. A key success included various alterations and improvements to the nationally significant Grade II* Listed Roger Stevens building including the conversion of former TV studio spaces into £10m Cheney Accelerator Hub. This scheme will allow the University to drive forward future Research Council funding.
Image – Cheney Accelerator Hub
leeds beckett university – BEEC
DPP provided key strategic advice on the approach towards rationalising the school for the Built Environment, engineering and Computing onto a site adjacent to the Rose Bowl building in Leeds. The proposals seek to co-locate the School within one single building in order to enhance efficiency in teaching and operations and to improve multi-disciplinary collaboration and innovation.
The site sits in a key location relative to the Rapid Mass Transit scheme, and the project is considered a key component in the goal of transforming the Woodhouse Gateway area into a significant innovation neighbourhood. The building will achieve high environmental standards being Net Zero Carbon in operation and attaining a BREEAM Excellent rating. Active ground-floor frontage and a ground-floor university café will boost site activity, while public realm enhancements will improve vitality and connectivity for improved pedestrian and cycle access along a key city centre street.
Up to 10,500 square metres of space will be provided within the new building and the new facilities will support future growth and expansion of Leeds Beckett to meet rapidly growing demand.
Image: Faulkner Brown
wise
UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS –
STRATEGIC PLANNING ADVICE
Client: University of Leeds
DPP is retained by the University of Leeds to provide strategic advice on the local Leeds Planning landscape. We do this by providing a Monthly map-based monitoring of planning applications on and within close proximity of the University’s estate which may impact on the Easte. We also monitor and update on planning policy documents such as the Local Plan, Neighbourhood Plans and Supplementary Planning Documents. We review and submit representations to relevant documents to protect UOL’s interests and ensure estate / asset management objectives are aligned with planning policy. Most recently, this has included the Local Plan Issues and Options stage, Rapid Mass Transit route options and various Neighbourhood Plans.
Image: Google Maps | Andison Iu
UNIVERSITY of york – MASTERPLAN
Development Brief
Working on behalf of the University of York DPP is preparing a Development Brief, as required by the policy within the recently adopted York Local Plan, to support future development at the Heslington Campus. The Brief is informed by the University’s 5 to 10 year estate strategy covering academic and residential accommodation.
Part of the Heslington Campus, generally referred to as Campus West, falls within a Registered Park and Garden and includes a number of Listed buildings and features. The team at DPP is, therefore, working closely with the University’s appointed heritage advisors and other appointed consultants in respect of issues relating to ecology, drainage and sustainability.
The Development brief is being prepared in consultation with the local planning authority and Historic England.
Image: University of York | Alex Holland
DURHAM UNIVERSITY – STRATEGIC partner
Strategic Planning Advice
DPP has been retained by Durham University as its strategic advisor for the last decade. Most recently, we have provided Planning strategy advice in the context of Durham County Council’s new development plan (CDP), which will have a lifespan of 15 years. On behalf of the University, we have submitted various sites within the University’s ownership to the CDP Call for Sites exercise. We liaise closely with Executive team in the Council to ensure that the new CDP reflects the emerging vision of the University.
Image: Maiden Castle – Faulkner Browns Architects
UNIVERSITY OF sUNDERLAND
Working on behalf of the University of Sunderland, DPP continue to advise on planning strategy to inform the initial stages of a full campus and estate review as well as providing ongoing advice to the estates team in relation to site specific demolitions and submitting planning applications for new build development to help meet the University’s long term growth plans.
