After graduating in Landscape Architecture in 1982, Mike spent 2 years working in Local Authority as landscape architect for Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council. He was then approached by the Design Co-ordinator of the Stoke National Garden Festival and charged with the design and implementation of play areas and Access for the Disabled across the site. He was responsible for the design of the award-winning Sunday Times Garden for the Disabled. Building on this experience, Mike traded as Michael Clough Associates for 2 years as a sole practitioner prior to setting up Landmark in 1982. Since then, he has been responsible for developing the company’s reputation for creating high quality environments and established an in-house construction company and maintenance to expand the company’s portfolio of design and build projects. Mike has substantial skills in project management and has directed numerous projects at all stages of the development and aftercare process. In addition, he has excellent communication and liaison skills ranging from Public Inquiries, press liaison and public consultation exercises, whilst also being at the forefront of computer development and application within the business. He has considerable experience of working with multi-disciplinary teams and is firmly committed to team discussion and co-operation backed up with co-ordination of design ideas and team organisation.
Landscape Design and Masterplanning: Mike has an extensive spread of projects across the landscape spectrum operating for government departments, secondary and higher education, local government and private sector funders and developers. Mike has particularly acute expertise and experience in the conception to delivery of large-scale masterplanning for business and technology parks, corporate landscape design and residential areas with the emphasis on creating high quality sustainable environments.
Urban Design and Infrastructure: Mike has worked for both the public and private sectors on urban design and infrastructure schemes. He has a comprehensive knowledge of all matters relating to streetscape design and hard landscape detailing. His close attention to detail and pursuit of excellence in terms of quality of design, application of appropriate principles and attention to detail always demands the highest quality and workmanship on site.
Landscape and Environmental Assessment: Mike has directed studies in both these areas, particularly in the field of project based landscape and visual impact assessment, in assessing the potential impact of proposed developments. These have included Centrum 100 Business Park in Burton-upon-Trent, Honda UK in Swindon and the Centenary Business Park in Rochdale. He has extensive experience in preparing and presenting material at Public Consultation and has successfully appeared at Public Inquiry as an expert on landscape matters on behalf of both public and private sector clients.