What HDB Town Planning and Design Does

HDB Town Planning and Design is a multi-discipline consulting firm that operates from Maitland in New South Wales. The firm provides town planning, urban design, and civil engineering services across the Hunter Region and NSW. Kerry Nichols established the practice in 1997 to deliver development and planning solutions for projects ranging from simple duplex applications to large-scale subdivision developments.

Town Planning and Development Services

The firm prepares development applications under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 for residential, commercial, industrial, and public infrastructure projects. Services include feasibility studies, due diligence assessments, and site evaluations to determine development potential and constraints. The practice handles complex planning challenges through strategic land use planning, rezoning proposals, and Land and Environment Court representation.

• Development application preparation and lodgement
• Strategic planning and rezoning proposals
• Feasibility studies and site constraint analysis
• Land and Environment Court proceedings

Urban Design and Civil Engineering

The team delivers urban design solutions that focus on creating quality urban spaces and sustainable community outcomes. Civil engineering services cover infrastructure design including stormwater management, sewer and water reticulation systems, and council approval pathways. The practice works with Hunter Water Corporation for water and sewer infrastructure approvals and coordinates with NSW government agencies for project delivery.

• Urban design and masterplanning services
• Civil infrastructure design and approvals
• Stormwater management and drainage systems
• Water and sewer reticulation design

Professional Memberships and Qualifications

The firm holds memberships with the Planning Institute of Australia, Urban Development Institute of Australia NSW, and Australian Institute of Company Directors. Staff qualifications include Post Graduate Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning, Master of Urbanism from University of Sydney, and civil engineering credentials. The practice maintains accreditation as Water and Sewer Reticulation Designer with Hunter Water Corporation and Associate Membership with Engineers Australia.

• Planning Institute of Australia membership
• Hunter Water Corporation accredited designer
• Engineers Australia associate membership
• Over 25 years local government and private sector experience

Service Areas and Project Experience

The practice serves the Hunter Region including Maitland, Newcastle, Singleton, Port Stephens, and Cessnock council areas, extending services across NSW. Project portfolio includes aged care developments, residential masterplans, vineyard developments, and structure planning initiatives. The firm works across Lower Hunter, Central Coast, and Hornsby regions with established relationships at all levels of government for project delivery.