The planning permission process can be time consuming, expensive, and deeply frustrating, with an apparent lack of consistency depending on type of development and where you are in the country. It’s tempting to believe you are at the whim of grumpy planning officers, random policy changes, NIMBYs, and a postcode lottery. But that’s really not the case.
While there’s no fool-proof way to guarantee success, recognising that policies exist for a reason, and many local authorities are under-staffed and facing record volumes of planning submissions is a good place to start.
Have conversations
Planning officers are, in the main, nice normal people. Talk to your local authority before all else.
Discuss your proposed project, ask for advice, and get a feel for what you can or can’t do.
Talk to your neighbours too. They have a say in what goes on in their area, and you will need to demonstrate your project takes their concerns into account.
Take a walk…
It often pays to have a good look around your local area. If there is precedent in your area for similar projects to what you have in mind, that’s a good sign. Likewise you can get a feel for how to tailor your project, so it is in keeping with the local area.
Hire experts
If you’re serious about your project, work with serious people. Planning experts and architects will know the planning application process inside out, having have worked on many similar projects. They have the experience and expertise to maximise the potential of your project and give it the best chance of approval.
Be patient
Planning permission is not a quick process – it can take up to ten weeks to get approval if no amendments are required. Many more if we have to amend our submission and resubmit.
Talk to English Architectural
With more than 30 years’ experience in successful planning applications, the team at English Architectural can help. To find out more call us on 01787 275588 or email Mike@english-architectural.co.uk. We’d be delighted to discuss.