Two minutes with Daniel Ramsay – Planning Manager at Lands Improvement  

Since joining Lands Improvement in 2023 as a Planner, Dan has quickly become an integral part of the team, recently stepping into the role of Planning Manager. With a strong background in both public and private sector planning, Dan brings a thoughtful, proactive and collaborative approach to shaping places that matter.

We sat down with him to hear more about his journey, what drives him, and what he enjoys outside of the office.

Dan, can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

I’m a Planning Manager here at Lands Improvement. I’ve been with the company for nearly two years now, and the time has really flown by. Before joining Lands Improvement, I worked in the planning team at a London council, where I gained a strong foundation in planning policy, Section 106 and CIL matters. I also spent time at a planning consultancy, promoting developments and securing planning consents across various sectors, from residential projects to sports stadia.

Can you share a project you’ve led that you’re particularly proud of, and what made it stand out to you?

A real standout for me has been leading on a site called Court House Farm, which I took on when I joined Lands Improvement. I’ve guided it through to a draft allocation in the Local Plan, and we’ve just submitted a planning application using the new ‘grey belt’ policy. What made it especially rewarding was the level of community engagement involved – we worked closely with local residents, the parish council, and various community groups.

Their feedback genuinely shaped the scheme, and it felt great to submit an application that reflected both our vision and the community’s input. Similarly, I’m also really pleased to have recently submitted another planning application, this time in Haddenham, which from the off was shaped by collaborative community workshops.

What’s your favourite part of the job?

That’s a tough one! I’d say one of the most fulfilling parts of the role is seeing the evolution – turning land into a drawing, into a vision, and ultimately into a real place that people live in and connect with… albeit that takes a while! Knowing that you’ve played a role in shaping somewhere that will exist and evolve long after the project ends is incredibly satisfying.

How would you describe the culture at Lands Improvement?

The culture here is one of the things I appreciate most. It’s calm, trusting, and supportive. Everyone is very competent and committed to their work, but at the same time, the environment feels friendly and down-to-earth.

There’s a high level of trust in each team member, and that trust allows you to take ownership and grow professionally. It’s a place where you’re encouraged to take initiative and bring ideas forward.

And outside of work, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Music’s a big love of mine – I’m always at gigs, and I’ve made it a personal mission to try and visit every live music venue in London (not that I needed any more excuses to go to gigs…). I’m also into football and F1. I support Liverpool and try to make it to games when I can, though the only way I’ve managed to see them of late is in the home end at away games!

I also follow Hanwell Town, my local non-league team in west London, which has been good fun.

When I’ve got the time, I also love travelling and discovering new places – Berlin and Naples are a couple of recent favourites.

Daniel’s thoughtful approach to planning, strong leadership, and passion for meaningful placemaking make him a valued member of the Lands Improvement team.