(image) The introduction of LDFs places local authorities in England in a stronger position to influence developer contributions to ensure benefit for local residents.

Expansion of our portfolio in Scotland and Wales also signifies the growing recognition of the value of this new way of shaping local communities.

KKP is an acknowledged leading UK expert in open spaces having completed PPG17, SPP11 and TAN16 studies for individual, and groups of, local authorities, national parks and private property developers. This ‘all round' experience and the renowned integrity with which we approach such assignments, places us in the forefront of the sector:

• Rural - our understanding of the challenges faced in rural environments is proven via work in/for the Lake and Peak District national parks, Cornwall, Derwentside and Teesdale.
• Urban - we help clients to address key issues in densely populated, deprived urban areas, engaging with key local and interest-based communities in environments ranging from Croydon to Bolton to Bradford and from Bridgend to North Lanarkshire.
• Cross boundary - the jointly commissioned assignments we have delivered, such as those for Derbyshire Dales, High Peak and the Peak District or Bournemouth and Poole councils, leave us well placed to support areas coming together as unitary authorities.
• Repeat commissions - we have a reputation for linking key studies, and being re-appointed to deliver associated assignments as has been the case for a number of clients including North Lanarkshire and Hyndburn councils.
• Developer contributions - all our contemporary work is used to underpin production of local development frameworks and SPDs. A vital issue, brought into sharper focus by the recent economic downturn; our expertise in this area is honed by experience of both sides of the process.

"KKP's work clearly informed our Open Space SPD that has recently received a Strategic Planning Award from Sport England. This would not have been possible without KKP's technical and forensic procedures." Pam Smithies, Systems and Information Officer, Calderdale Council.

Our approach centres on assessing exactly what is there and developing understanding about how it does or could meet community need. This enables us to provide our clients with clear direction for future development.

In addition to knowledgeable and committed consultants, we have an excellent in-house field research team; giving us a capacity unmatched in the sector. We manage large, complex assessments against sophisticated, added value criteria developed from, and reflecting, Green Flag principles.

Green Flag

(image) The national standard for parks and green spaces across the UK, three of our consultants are experienced Green Flag Judges. They, and through them all our field research staff, are trained in all aspects of the quality standard.

Each year, we assess parks and open space sites, conducting, on average, 3,000 separate assessments. Using Green Flag criteria, we determine whether they are welcoming, safe, well maintained and generate strong local community involvement. As a result, we are able to provide invaluable support to authorities considering their applications.