An Urban Designer works within UK local authorities to shape the built environment through high‑quality design, placemaking and masterplanning. They help create attractive, functional and sustainable places by influencing development proposals, preparing design guidance and supporting regeneration and planning policy work.
This role involves design analysis, spatial planning, visualisation, stakeholder engagement and ensuring new development enhances the character and quality of towns, cities and rural areas.
Main Responsibilities
Prepare design guidance, masterplans and urban design frameworks
Review planning applications for design quality, layout and placemaking
Support regeneration projects with design expertise
Produce visualisations, diagrams and spatial analysis
Advise development management and planning policy teams
Engage with communities, developers and partner organisations
Promote high‑quality design across the authority
Typical Employers
Local authorities
Combined authorities
Urban development corporations
Regeneration partnerships
Design and planning consultancies
Salary Range
Urban Designer salaries typically range from £35,000 to £50,000, depending on location and experience.