Planning Application Process
In the UK, navigating the planning application process involves multiple steps and can be quite intricate. Initially, the applicant must submit their proposal to the local planning authority, complete with detailed plans and supporting documents. The authority evaluates the proposal against various criteria, including local planning policies, environmental impact, and public sentiment. A public consultation period usually follows, allowing neighbours and interested parties to provide feedback. Ultimately, the authority decides whether to grant or deny the application, based on all pertinent factors and regulations. Our team of expert designers and planners is equipped to assist with a range of applications:
- Permitted Developments
- Prior Approval
- Householder Applications
- Residential Conversions to Multiple Units
- Single or Multi-Unit New Builds
- Listed Building Consents
- Full Planning Applications
Further details on some of these application types are provided below.
Permitted Development
In the context of UK planning regulations, "Permitted Development" refers to certain types of construction, alterations, or changes to a property that can be undertaken without the need to obtain planning permission from the local authority.
Permitted Development Rights vary depending on factors such as the type of property, its location, and any existing restrictions or designations that may apply, such as conservation areas or listed buildings.
It's important to note that even though certain works may fall under permitted development rights, there are often specific limitations and conditions that must be adhered to.
Failure to comply with the conditions of permitted development rights can result in enforcement action by the local planning authority, so it's essential to carefully review the regulations and seek professional advice to ensure compliance with the law.
Pre-Application Process
In the UK planning regulations, the "pre-application advice process" refers to a service provided by local planning authorities to assist individuals or entities who are considering submitting a planning application. It allows prospective applicants to seek guidance and feedback from the planning authority before formally submitting their application.
Here's how the pre-application advice process typically works:
1. Initial Inquiry: The prospective applicant contacts the local planning authority to express their interest in seeking pre-application advice. This can usually be done through the planning department's website or by contacting them directly.
2. Discussion and Guidance: The planning authority may provide initial guidance over the phone or via email to help the prospective applicant understand the planning process, relevant policies, and any specific requirements or constraints that may apply to their proposed development.
3. Formal Pre-Application Meeting: If the prospective applicant wishes to proceed, they can request a formal pre-application meeting with the planning authority. This meeting is usually attended by representatives from the planning authority, as well as the prospective applicant and their agents or consultants.
4. Submission of Information: Prior to the meeting, the prospective applicant typically submits detailed information about their proposed development, including plans, drawings, and any other relevant documents. This allows the planning authority to review the proposal in advance and provide informed advice during the meeting.
5. Discussion and Feedback: During the pre-application meeting, the planning authority provides feedback on the proposed development, including any potential issues or concerns, as well as suggestions for improvement. The meeting may also involve discussions about relevant planning policies, design principles, and any specific requirements that need to be addressed in the formal planning application.
6. Follow-Up Actions: Following the meeting, the planning authority may provide written feedback summarizing the discussions and any specific recommendations or requirements for the formal planning application. This allows the prospective applicant to make any necessary revisions or adjustments to their proposal before submitting their application.
The pre-application advice process is intended to facilitate open communication between prospective applicants and planning authorities, helping to streamline the planning process and improve the quality of planning applications. While it is not mandatory to seek pre-application advice, it can often be beneficial for applicants to gain early feedback and guidance to help ensure the success of their planning application.
House Holder Application
A householder planning application, often referred to simply as a "householder application," is a type of planning application typically submitted by homeowners or property developers for alterations, extensions, or other changes to existing residential properties. This type of application is specific to individual properties rather than large-scale developments.
Here's a breakdown of what typically goes into a householder planning application:
1.Applicant Details: The application will start with details of the applicant, which could be the homeowner or their appointed designer.
2. Site Location and Description: This section includes details of the property for which planning permission is sought, including its address, boundaries, and any other relevant geographical details.
3. Description of Proposed Development: A clear and detailed description of the proposed changes or developments to the property, including any alterations, extensions, or other works intended.
4. Site Plans and Drawings: Detailed site plans and drawings showing the existing property layout and proposed changes. These may include floor plans, elevation drawings, and site location plans.
5. Supporting Documents: Depending on the nature of the proposed development, additional supporting documents may be required. This could include design and access statements, heritage impact assessments, ecological surveys, or any other relevant reports.
6. Consultation and Notification: Local planning authorities often require applicants to notify neighbors and other stakeholders about the proposed development. Proof of this notification process may need to be included in the application.
7. Application Fee: There is usually a fee associated with submitting a planning application, which varies depending on the nature and scale of the proposed development.
Once submitted, the local planning authority will review the application to assess its compliance with relevant planning policies, regulations, and the potential impact on the surrounding area. This may involve a period of public consultation where neighbors and other interested parties can submit comments or objections.
Ultimately, the decision to grant or refuse planning permission will be made by the local planning authority based on various factors, including the impact on the local environment, the character of the area, and the views of local residents and stakeholders. Ensure to seek advice from an experienced professional in order to maximise the chance of success.
In the context of UK planning regulations, a "full planning application" refers to the formal process through which an individual or entity seeks permission from the local planning authority to carry out development on a property or land that does not fall within the scope of permitted development rights. This process involves submitting detailed plans, drawings, and other supporting documents outlining the proposed development and its potential impact on the surrounding area.
A full planning application typically involves several stages:
1. Preparation: The applicant prepares comprehensive plans and documents detailing the proposed development, including architectural drawings, site plans, environmental assessments, and any other information required by the local planning authority.
2. Submission: The applicant submits the full planning application to the local planning authority, along with the required application fee. This can usually be done online or by post, depending on the preferences of the local authority.
3. Validation: Upon receipt, the local planning authority validates the application to ensure that all necessary information and documents have been provided. If any information is missing or incomplete, the applicant may be asked to provide additional details.
4. Public Consultation: In many cases, the local planning authority will undertake a period of public consultation, during which neighbors, community groups, and other stakeholders may have the opportunity to review the plans and submit comments or objections.
5. Assessment: The planning authority evaluates the application, taking into account factors such as the local planning policies, the potential impact on the surrounding area, and any representations received during the public consultation period.
6. Decision: Based on the assessment, the local planning authority will make a decision to approve, refuse, or conditionally approve the application. This decision is typically communicated to the applicant in writing and may include reasons for refusal or conditions that must be met for approval.
7. Appeal: If the application is refused, the applicant has the right to appeal the decision to an independent planning inspectorate, which will review the case and make a final determination.
Overall, a full planning application provides a structured and formal process for seeking permission for development that falls outside the scope of permitted development rights, ensuring that proposed developments are carefully considered in accordance with relevant planning policies and regulations.
Full Planning Application
Concept Design
Building Regulation