Ayano Kikuhara
Ayano joined us during the summer of 2023 after completing her Master’s degree in Urban Planning at UWE Bristol and Master of Town Planning and Design at Nihon University in Tokyo, Japan. Prior to joining Arrow, Ayano built upon a variety of experience within private planning consultancies in Japan as an Assistant Planner working on community-based projects. In 2025 Ayano became a Chartered Member of the RTPI and was soon promoted to Senior Planner in April 2026. Ayano supports a number of residential developments across a variety of scales and has a strong professional network in both the UK and Japan.
Ayano’s Role
Promoted to Senior Planner in 2026 for commitment and dedication to people and projects. Ayano proactively coordinates and project manages multi-disciplinary teams across the South East. Ayano supports the senior team in the submission and negotiation of complex planning strategies and is known for her attention to detail and high standards in all aspects of her work.
Away from Arrow
Ayano enjoys music concerts with her friends, she plays the drums and bass guitar and loves the opportunity to play alongside her Mum when she returns home to Japan. In the winter, you might find Ayano adventuring to the slopes for snowboarding with her friends.
