Beresfords Group expands Land division team

He will also assess how changes to national and local planning policy could create new opportunities for sites that may previously have been considered unsuitable for development. 

Since joining Beresfords, Alex has already identified more than 140 previously rejected or overlooked development opportunities, some with the potential for over 300 dwellings, highlighting a fresh approach to historic planning applications as policy evolves. 

A key focus of his work is understanding how the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and local planning policies may affect the prospects of previously unsuccessful schemes. This includes reassessing land in light of changes to Grey Belt policy and proactively contacting landowners to establish whether there may now be a case for revisiting earlier applications. 

Alongside identifying potential opportunities, Alex is helping landowners understand the factors that determine whether a development is commercially viable. Planning permission does not automatically mean a scheme makes financial sense, with costs such as the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements, construction and finance all influencing land values and development potential. 

Fraser Allen, Land Director at Beresfords, said: “We are delighted to welcome Alex to the team. His appointment further strengthens our Land Division and our ability to provide landowners with informed advice on the opportunities available to them. 

“Alex has already made a positive impact, identifying potential development opportunities that had previously been rejected or overlooked. This demonstrates the importance of continually reassessing land as planning policy evolves and circumstances change. 

“His ability to identify potential schemes, combined with an understanding of the practical and financial considerations involved in development, will be a real asset to the team and the landowners we work with.”

Alex Kensit, Land Consultant at Beresfords, said: “I have really enjoyed my time so far and it’s been rewarding to identify so many potential development opportunities and see significant interest from them, alongside exploring how changes in planning policy could create new possibilities for landowners.

“My role is about looking at land with fresh eyes, understanding the planning position and working with landowners to establish what might be possible. Just as importantly, I want to be open, honest and transparent about viability, helping landowners understand both the opportunities and the challenges before deciding on the best way forward.”