Our Monthly Newsletter: Summer Reflection
As summer draws to a close, Brookbanks is taking a moment to reflect on the past few months of progress, innovation, and transformation across the development and infrastructure sectors. With new policy shifts and industry reviews shaping the landscape, we’re also looking forward to the opportunities ahead and how we can help our clients stay ahead of the curve.
Introducing our Brookbanks Podcast
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of the Brookbanks Podcast, a new platform where our experts share insights on the latest industry developments and practical strategies for navigating change.
In our debut episode, Ben Wakeling (Commercial Director) and Jack Lynch (Planning Manager) unpack the recent updates to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). They explore:
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What’s changed in the NPPF
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The motivations behind the reforms
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Implications for developers, local authorities, and infrastructure projects
Whether you prefer to watch, read, or listen on the go, the Brookbanks Podcast is your go-to resource for staying informed and prepared. Catch the full episode on our YouTube channel or read the accompanying blog on our website.
Spotlight on the Cunliffe Review: Transforming the Water Sector
In July, the Government’s Independent Water Commission, led by Sir Jon Cunliffe, released its long-awaited review of the UK water sector. With 88 recommendations for reform, the report marks a pivotal moment for developers and infrastructure planners.
Key changes include:
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Mandatory engagement with water companies
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New statutory requirements for Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS)
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A re-evaluation of the ‘right to connect’
These reforms will directly impact planning applications, project timelines, and long-term infrastructure strategies. At Brookbanks, we’re already working with clients to interpret the findings and adapt their plans to remain compliant, mitigate risks, and unlock new opportunities.
You can read our full breakdown of the recommendations and our strategic advice in our blog
Future-Proofing Your Projects
Now is the time to review your development strategies and ensure your projects are resilient to upcoming changes. Our team is here to help you:
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Assess how policy changes could affect your current or future schemes
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Develop integrated strategies for water, utilities, and infrastructure delivery
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Prepare early-stage planning approaches to keep projects compliant and on track
Partnering for Success
The development landscape is evolving rapidly, but with the right preparation and expert guidance, change can be a catalyst for growth. At Brookbanks, we’re committed to providing the insights, strategy, and support you need to navigate these shifts successfully.
If you’d like to explore how our team can support your projects, visit our website or reach out directly to Rachel Appleby, Group Business Director, at rachel.appleby@brookbanks.com.
Thank you for your continued partnership. We look forward to working with you through the rest of 2025 and beyond.
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Cost & Commercial Group
Infrastructure/Abnormal/Site-Wide Cost Planning. We have vast experience in structuring, maintaining and managing budgets of hundreds of million pounds, en...
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Development Management Group
We are one of the UK's leading partners to blue chip developers, funders and land promoters. From securing planning consents for major house building schem...
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Land, Development and Communities Group
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Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Group
Our Mechanical and Electrical Engineering Group has a renowned team of award-winning, energy-centric building services specialists.
We are a creative te...
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More News
Podcast #3: Utility Infrastructure for Strategic Sites
October 23, 2025
In this episode of the Brookbanks podcast, host Ben Wakeling is joined by Mat Capper, and Emily Timmins from MADE, to explore the evolving landscape of utility infrastructure for strategic development sites.
Elevating Value: Planning & Project Management in Action
October 22, 2025
In today’s development landscape, the ability to unlock value through effective planning and project management has never been more critical. Increasing regulation, complex stakeholder networks, and heightened expectations around sustainability and deliverability mean that every decision, from concept to completion, carries weight.
Bridgend College – Flagship Project & Ceremony
October 21, 2025
Brookbanks is proud to have delivered the civil and structural engineering design for Bridgend College’s transformative new town centre campus. This is a landmark £50 million development that will provide 13,000m² of state-of-the-art educational space across two buildings.