CBRE establishes planning and development division in Scotland

Global real estate advisor CBRE has established a dedicated planning division in Scotland, enhancing its ability to support clients across development, capital markets and consultancy services.

Leading the new division are senior directors Colin Smith and Kate Donald. Colin, with 27 years of experience in urban living, hospitality, leisure and commercial sectors, will integrate planning into CBRE’s wider service offering while driving growth across Scotland. Kate brings over two decades of expertise in repurposing the built environment, further strengthening the team’s focus on high-profile regeneration projects in cities including Edinburgh and Glasgow.

The team also includes senior planners Hannah Munro and James Wall, who join from Turley. They are already advising on landmark projects such as Edinburgh’s New Town Quarter, Ocean Terminal and Glasgow’s Central Quay mixed-use development.

Colin said: “We are joining CBRE at an exciting period of change in Scotland, where regeneration and economic growth is at the top of the agenda for the Scottish Government.

“There is great opportunity to drive meaningful change, and I look forward to contributing to that momentum.

“CBRE is a trusted advisor to some of the biggest players in the international real estate market and we will collaborate with teams internally to ensure clients have access to our full, integrated offer.  

“Kate, Hannah and James have outstanding experience, advising on some of Scotland’s most complex regeneration projects in recent times. This stands us in great stead for the next chapter of CBRE in Scotland.”

This strategic expansion complements CBRE’s national planning operations, enabling seamless collaboration between the new Scottish team and its UK-wide counterparts to address complex planning challenges and unlock development opportunities.

Chris Dougray, head of development at CBRE Scotland, added: “Planning is the key to driving transformational regeneration, and it is no secret that the landscape in Scotland is both dynamic and complex. 

“Whilst we cannot ignore the significant immediate challenges, this comes with great opportunity. 

“Matching a best in class planning proposition to the range and scale of the CBRE platform throughout the UK and internationally makes for an exciting opportunity for our clients.  

“Our new planning team in Scotland is a great cultural fit with the UK team and allows us to grow north of the border. 

“It is fantastic to welcome Colin, Kate and the wider team, who will be instrumental in re-shaping and enhancing Scotland’s towns and cities.”

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