Press release: gbpartnerships group acquires planning consultancy DLP and architecture practice Cass Design

Acquisitions expand gbpartnerships’ capability by bringing planning, design and delivery under one group and add 34 specialist staff to its workforce.

BIRMINGHAM, Thursday 8 October 2026 - gbpartnerships group (gbp), a multi-disciplinary property and estates organisation, has acquired the business and assets of DLP Planning Limited (DLP) and Cass Design Consultants Limited (Cass).

Marking one of the most significant steps in gbp group’s history, the acquisitions strengthen the group's development pipeline from the outset and extend its footprint into new regions across the UK. Following this move, gbp group now employs more than 130 people across the UK.

DLP and Cass will continue to operate under their existing brands within gbp group, with Angela Dimbleby continuing as Managing Director of both businesses.

James Lloyd, Chief Executive Officer of gbp group, said:

“DLP and Cass are specialist, client-focused businesses that make excellent additions to our group. Together, we can now support clients all the way from planning and design, through delivery, to long-term asset management. This represents a genuine step change in what we can offer as a group and supports our growth ambitions. I'm delighted to welcome everyone at DLP and Cass and am excited about what we'll build together.”

Angela Dimbleby, MD of DLP and Cass, said:

“Joining gbp group is an exciting next chapter for DLP and Cass. It gives our clients access to development, delivery and asset management expertise, and gives our people new opportunities to grow, while keeping the identity and strengths that our clients value. Our expertise is a natural fit with gbp group's work across healthcare and the wider public estate, and we’re looking forward to working together to help our clients create better buildings and places.”

About gbpartnerships group

gbpartnerships is a multi-faceted organisation providing strategic estates planning, property development, asset management and consultancy services to the public and private sectors. With roots in the NHS LIFT programme and 25 years' experience, the group helps organisations across health, local government and the wider public sector solve complex estate challenges, from estate strategy and business cases through to the planning, funding, delivery and long-term management of buildings. Its UK-wide team now numbers more than 130 people, with operations across the UK. Website: www.gbpartnerships.co.uk

About DLP Planning

DLP is one of the UK's leading independent planning-led practices, working across planning, transport and infrastructure, energy and sustainability, and environmental services. It has offices in Bedford, Sheffield, Rugby and Bristol. Website: www.dlpconsultants.co.uk

About Cass Design

Cass Design is an integrated team of architects, masterplanners, landscape architects and sustainability specialists operating from Liverpool, Bedford, London and Sheffield, with particular expertise in heritage, conservation and new buildings in sensitive settings. Website: www.cass-design.co.uk