Your architect and the planning application process
Typically, navigating the planning application and consent process can be one of the most daunting aspects of redeveloping your property. For most people, the planning process is something they haven’t experienced before and are unlikely to go through again. This is an area where someone who has experienced the process many times can help you navigate your project through the process.
What does the planning process mean to me?
If you are developing or redeveloping a property you are are obliged to comply with legislation concerning planning as well as Building Regulations and health and safety. This applies to both commercial and residential projects.
Navigating the planning process is partly about understanding the legislation and process that needs to be adhered to. It is also concerned with knowing who will be involved and what their priorities are. On commercial projects it is often the case that there is a range of people who will be involved in decision making and the review of your project.
Guidance through the planning process
Your architect will navigate you through the planning application and consent process. In the initial stages this will involve creating your plans in the context of your requirements and the planning context for your development. The planning application will progress through various stages of detail with your architect undertaking initial discussions before submitting a formal planning application, depending on the nature of the scheme. It is possible that your application is granted with due process but, should a planning inquiry or appeal be required, your architect will be able to represent you through the process and act as an expert witness.
The planning application and consent process
The process involves the following basis stages, though not all applications will go through all of these stages.
- Advise you on your responsibilities under the Party Wall Act
- Carry out preliminary discussions with key bodies: Planning authority, Highways authority, Drainage authority, Fire authority, Environmental health, Environment agency and Service Providers
- Prepare detailed planning application drawings for your approval
- Prepare computer model and 3D rendered images of scheme
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- Prepare and deposit: detailed planning application, conservation area application, listed building application, advertisement display application, public footpath diversion application
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- Negotiate requirements of section 106 agreement where appropriate
- Advise on planning appeal routes
- Act as expert witness in planning inquiry
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If you’d like more information or our perspective on how the planning process might affect your scheme, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
