Cape Town · Town Planning

Planning solutions for a world in constant change.

Nigel Burls & Associates is a professional town planning consultancy providing an extensive range of services to both private and public sector clients. We deliver comprehensive, robust solutions grounded in a thorough understanding of planning legislation and authorisation processes, underpinned by sound planning principles and backed by over 40 years of collective experience in the built environment industry.

In an increasingly uncertain world, where the only thing that's constant is change, we understand that right timing and risk management are critical to the success of real estate projects. A smart and swift solution to a planning challenge is possible only with a comprehensive understanding of the players, the lay of the land and the rules of the game. We have made it our business to understand all three.

Scroll

Who we are

Nigel Burls

Founder · Professional Planner

With a background in Economics, Nigel graduated with a Master's in City and Regional Planning from the University of Cape Town in 1984.

His extensive experience includes township establishment, framework planning, policy development and numerous land rights acquisition projects for a long list of private and public sector clients — including AECI, Newlands Rugby & Cricket, the V&A Waterfront, Sanlam, the City of Cape Town and the Department of Public Works.

Nigel was at the helm of one of the largest multi-disciplinary practices in Cape Town for twenty years before breaking away to establish Nigel Burls & Associates. He currently sits on the Municipal Planning Tribunal and on several design review committees.

Nigel is a registered professional planner with the South African Council for Planners and a member of various professional bodies.

Curriculum Vitae →

Mida Kirova

Partner · Professional Planner

Mida graduated with a Master's in City and Regional Planning from the University of Cape Town in 2006 and began her planning career under Nigel's mentorship, gaining considerable experience in land use applications of varying scales and complexities.

Following a brief interlude working in the wine industry, she was drawn back to planning and spent the next four years as Senior Spatial Planner with the City of Cape Town, where she obtained first-hand experience of City processes and procedures, nurturing relationships with the people who make them happen.

In 2016, Mida joined Nigel in establishing Nigel Burls & Associates. Along the way, she obtained a Post Graduate Diploma in Property Studies from the University of Cape Town. She has a particular interest in urban land markets and property development and investment.

Mida is a registered professional planner with the South African Council for Planners.

Curriculum Vitae →