Boyer at 40: Where It All Began

In 1985, a new planning consultancy was founded with a simple but powerful ambition: to offer intelligent, collaborative advice that helped shape better places to live and work.

From those early foundations, Boyer has grown into a national consultancy with offices across the UK, an expert multidisciplinary team, and a proven track record across sectors. But the principles we started with – partnership, quality, and a passion for planning – still guide everything we do today.

The Early Years

Boyer’s first office opened in the mid-1980s at a time of great change. The planning system was evolving. New housing demand was rising. Our founders saw an opportunity to bring clarity, creativity and client focus to the process.

Our first projects involved working with private developers and local authorities to bring forward residential-led schemes that balanced commercial and community priorities. The quality of our advice – and the relationships we built – helped us grow quickly.

Growth and Regional Reach

By the 1990s, Boyer was establishing regional offices and broadening its offer to include urban design, environmental planning and land promotion. These additions allowed us to serve clients more comprehensively and respond to the increasing complexity of planning policy.

We became known for our practical insight and strategic approach, helping unlock complex sites and guiding developments from concept to consent.

Looking Back, Looking Forward

As we celebrate 40 years, it’s clear that the planning landscape has changed dramatically – but so too has our ability to shape it.

From small beginnings, Boyer has become a consultancy trusted by developers, landowners, local authorities, housing associations and housebuilders alike. Our success is built on our people, our partnerships, and our belief in the value of place.

In our upcoming blogs, we’ll explore key moments in our history, the projects that defined us, and how we’re preparing for the future of planning in an era of climate action, housing need and digital transformation.

Thank you for being part of the journey.