Community Focus
The people who will live, work and travel through a place deserve to shape its future. We facilitate meaningful engagement that captures diverse perspectives.
About Our Practice
Dedicated professionals working at the intersection of planning policy, community needs and sustainable development
Our Story
Keen-leaf was established in 2006 by a small group of planning professionals who believed that thoughtful urban design could transform communities. What began as a three-person practice has grown into a respected consultancy serving local authorities and developers across the United Kingdom.
Our founding principle remains unchanged: every planning decision shapes how people live, work and interact with their environment. This responsibility drives us to approach each project with rigour, creativity and genuine care for outcomes.
Over eighteen years, we have contributed to regeneration schemes, new housing developments, town centre strategies and strategic land assessments. Each project has deepened our understanding of what makes places work.
Our Values
The principles that guide our approach to every project and relationship
Environmental Responsibility
Climate adaptation and biodiversity enhancement are integral to our recommendations, not afterthoughts. We design for resilience.
Evidence-Based Practice
Robust data analysis underpins our recommendations. We question assumptions and test options before advocating for particular approaches.
Long-term Thinking
Quick fixes rarely serve communities well. We consider how decisions will play out over decades, not just development cycles.
Collaborative Approach
We work alongside architects, engineers, ecologists and transport planners to deliver integrated solutions that account for multiple disciplines.
Honest Communication
We tell clients what they need to hear, not just what they want to hear. Realistic expectations lead to better outcomes for everyone.
Our Expertise
Our team combines chartered planners, urban designers and engagement specialists with deep knowledge of UK planning policy and practice.
We hold memberships with the Royal Town Planning Institute and maintain ongoing professional development in emerging areas such as biodiversity net gain, active travel planning and digital engagement methodologies.
- Strategic land promotion and allocation
- Residential masterplanning
- Mixed-use regeneration
- Green infrastructure strategies
- Planning application support
- Community consultation facilitation
Leadership Team
Experienced professionals guiding our practice and client relationships
Richard Atkinson
Managing DirectorFounding partner with 25 years in strategic planning and development consultancy.
Catherine Bradshaw
Design DirectorUrban designer specialising in placemaking and public realm improvements.
Michael Greenwood
Principal PlannerFormer local authority officer with expertise in development management.
Work With Us
Whether you are a local authority developing policy, a developer pursuing a site, or a community group seeking independent expertise, we would welcome a conversation about how we might help.
Contact Our Team