David Kemp Appointed to Design Yorkshire Review Panel  

Following a rigorous selection process, Design Yorkshire has appointed urban design associate director David Kemp to its review panel for the next three years – supporting the region’s drive to strengthen independent design governance.

Design Yorkshire is a not-for-profit and part of the Design Network – a group of organisations working across England to improve design quality and placemaking nationally.

Each year, the panel appoints leading specialists from the built and natural environment to review significant architectural and landscape projects in Yorkshire and the Humber. Panel members are recognised nationally for their expertise, innovation and best practice.

David’s appointment reinforces our integrated approach to planning, design, heritage and socio-economics – a multidisciplinary offering focused on delivering resilient, distinctive and future-ready places.

David said: “Design quality has never been more important. As development pressures increase and environmental expectations rise, the industry must respond with stronger design leadership and strategic long-term thinking. I look forward to supporting Design Yorkshire in promoting design standards that are evidence-led, place-specific, and capable of delivering meaningful value for communities.”

Luke Hillson, urban design partner, added: “David brings strategic insight that goes beyond design. He understands how policy, viability, character and social value intersect, and that holistic perspective is what high-quality development requires. His appointment to the panel reflects Marrons’ commitment to raising design quality nationally and we are pleased to see his expertise helping shape the future of places across the region.”

Design Yorkshire’s panel includes experts in architecture, urban design, planning, landscape architecture, engineering, ecology, heritage and conservation, movement, and transport. By assembling specialists, the organisation supports design teams in embedding stronger design governance across the region, ensuring projects are better aligned with long-term sustainability, identity, and community needs.