Architectural Department Welcomes New Planning Director and Associate Director
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Anthony Blackwell as Planning Director and Kavita Dhande as Associate Director at Banners Gate. Together, Anthony and Kavita will lead the expansion and development of our Architectural Department, bringing a wealth of experience, expertise, and leadership to the business.
Anthony Blackwell is a Chartered Architect with over 30 years of experience in the built environment. His early career included working for architectural consultancies and lecturing in construction studies before transitioning into the house building industry, where he held senior roles at both regional and national companies. As a Design Manager and Technical Manager, Anthony has overseen all aspects of residential development, from land acquisition to site completion and adoption, offering a holistic understanding of the development lifecycle.
With a strong foundation in master planning and urban design, Anthony has successfully delivered high-quality, place-based housing schemes that balance design ambition, regulatory compliance, and commercial viability. Most recently, Anthony served on the regional board at Redrow as Head of Technical, where he led all technical functions. He joined Banners Gate in December 2024 to bring his strategic vision and extensive knowledge to our growing team.
Kavita Dhande is a Chartered Architect with a background in commercial architecture, having led projects through all design stages — from early concept and spatial planning to technical detailing and construction. Kavita has worked for several leading Birmingham-based practices, including Corstorphine & Wright and Glancy Nicholls Architects.
Her project experience spans bespoke private homes, city centre apartment schemes, S106-funded schools, and all-through education campuses. With a focus on urban developments, Kavita specialises in delivering high-quality buildings that enhance the townscape, promote contemporary living, and respond sensitively to their surrounding context.
Kavita holds a BA in Architecture from Northumbria University and postgraduate qualifications (MA and PgDip) from Birmingham City University. Her work is driven by a strong commitment to how architecture serves people and communities. In addition to her professional practice, she is a passionate advocate for diversity, inclusion, and ethics in architecture.
She actively supports the wider profession through her roles as a RIBA Ambassador and Architects Benevolent Society Ambassador, and as an Advisory Member for the Open City Accelerate Programme. She is also the founder of the Diversity and Inclusion Group at the Birmingham Architectural Association (BAA) and has served on its board.
We are thrilled to welcome Anthony and Kavita to the leadership team. Their combined experience and vision will play a key role in shaping the future of our architectural services. We look forward to the continued growth of the department and the exciting projects ahead.
