Masterplanning


Creating sustainable, deliverable places

Master planning sits at the heart of successful development. It goes beyond layout to shape places that work socially, environmentally and economically over the long term. At CMA, we bring together architecture, landscape, infrastructure and planning expertise to create clear, deliverable masterplans that respond to site constraints, policy requirements and community needs.

Our approach is collaborative, structured and evidence-led. We establish a strong vision for each place, coordinate key elements such as access, landscape and infrastructure from the outset, and develop realistic phasing strategies that support delivery. Through early engagement with stakeholders, communities and technical consultants, we ensure proposals are aligned, practical and ready to progress through planning.

We produce concise, robust masterplans that integrate movement, land use, landscape and infrastructure into a coherent framework for development. A landscape-led approach underpins our work, using existing features to shape design, enhance biodiversity and create high-quality open space. By resolving constraints early and focusing on deliverability, we support the creation of well-connected, sustainable places that can be successfully brought forward.


Our approach

Our masterplanning process is structured, collaborative and evidence-led. We guide projects from early feasibility through to delivery frameworks, ensuring that each stage aligns with planning policy and stakeholder expectations.

Integrated thinking
Coordinating layout, access, landscape, ecology, infrastructure and phasing from the outset to avoid conflict later in the process.

Vision-led design
Establishing a clear, place-based vision that responds to context, identity and long-term outcomes.

Stakeholder engagement
Supporting pre-application consultation, community engagement and coordination with statutory bodies.

Deliverability and phasing
Developing realistic, phased strategies that support funding, infrastructure delivery and planning approval.


What we deliver

Our masterplans combine clear visual information with concise supporting narrative, providing a robust framework for planning and delivery.

  • Illustrative masterplans and development frameworks

  • Movement and access strategies (vehicular, pedestrian and cycle)

  • Infrastructure and servicing principles

  • Planning and supporting statements

  • Land use distribution and density strategies

  • Landscape and green infrastructure strategies

  • Phasing and delivery strategies

We ensure that all masterplans clearly demonstrate integration with existing communities, infrastructure and landscape, in line with best practice guidance.


delivering housing-led masterplans

Our experience includes residential and mixed-use masterplans, with a strong focus on affordable and community-led housing delivery.

  • Respond to housing demand and policy requirements

  • provide safe, connected movement networks

  • Integrate development with existing settlements and amenities

  • Deliver high-quality, energy-efficient homes within a strong placemaking framework

Our phased delivery strategies ensure developments can come forward in a practical and sustainable way.


Call to Action

Let’s build better homes together. If you’re planning a housing or community project, we’d be happy to discuss how we can support you.

Case Studies

Michael Mclellan