Wondering about planning permissions, costs or timelines for your next project? You’ve come to the right place. Every development has its own specifics, but hopefully this blog is packed with useful planning advice for homeowners and developers, to give you an idea of what to expect and how we can help you succeed.
First things first – find out if you even need permission. Many smaller changes are allowed under “permitted development” rules which our free eBook explains. We offer initial consultations to assess your situation at no cost. However Councils often provide pre-application services which can help you with this.
Statutory fees vary by size and scope, but we aim to provide fixed quotes upfront so there are no surprises. Contact us and we’ll estimate costs for your specific proposal. Depending on the project, you may need specialised reports like heritage assessments, too. Our application process eBook details common documentation needs.
Processing times also depend on the proposal, though councils generally aim for 8-13 weeks. As experienced planners, we’ll ensure your application is thorough to help expedite the process as far as practical, however be aware Councils are often under resourced and dealing with backlog. However we’re also on hand to answer questions so they can make a swift decision.
Living in a listed building can be a unique and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of planning challenges. Listed buildings are protected due to their historical and architectural significance, meaning any alterations, extensions, or repairs require careful consideration and often, specific permissions. It’s crucial to understand the extent of the listing – as it can apply to both the exterior and interior of the building. Before embarking on any project, homeowners should seek advice on how to sympathetically make changes that respect the building’s heritage, while complying with strict regulations. Our team specialises in navigating the complexities associated with listed buildings, providing tailored advice to ensure your home improvements meet legal requirements and preserve the character of your historic property. For more insights, refer to our Practical Guide to Listed Buildings.
Thinking of building a home? Our self-builder eBook walks through getting started. We evaluate sites and provide robust statements of support for smooth sailing.
Interested in extending a property? Permitted development regulations around this can be complex – check out our Free Permitted Development eBook before beginning work.
Should the unexpected occur and you face refusal, don’t lose hope. We’ve successfully represented many clients at appeal however if you want to tackle the process yourself take a look at our dedicated eBook covering Planning Appeals.
Simply put, experienced planning advisors take the stress out of the process. Our blog When to Hire a Town Planner and our download a Guide on How to Choose a Town Planner explains why it’s worth bringing professionals on board from the get-go.
If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Related Content
More information for you is available in our series of eBooks and Practical Guides which cover everything from the very basics of town planning to application processes and what developers need to consider.
