DO I NEED A PLANNING CONSULTANT?

In most cases, especially for projects more complex than a basic home extension, it is wise to consult a planning expert. A planning consultant’s insights can save you time and money, helping you avoid costly mistakes thanks to their in-depth understanding of local council policies, development regulations, and the overall planning process. Planning consultancy is a specialised field that often draws on expertise in design, heritage, conservation, flood risk, viability, and highways, among others. Consultants can also pinpoint opportunities to enhance the value of your project through planning permissions and guide you through the entire process alongside other specialists.

If your project is initially refused planning permission, the odds of success can drop significantly with each subsequent attempt. Because of this, many clients choose to hire a planning consultant, particularly for larger or more intricate projects, to improve the likelihood of securing permission on the first try.

What can a planning consultant do for you?

The role of a planning consultant is broad and varied. Their first step is often a thorough assessment of the site, evaluating its viability by examining factors such as planning history, land designations, ecology, flood risks, noise, access, and sustainability credentials. They also review relevant local and national policies to understand how these might influence your application. Despite ongoing efforts to streamline planning, the process remains complex and ever-evolving. Recognising what policies are relevant and what has been superseded is instrumental in obtaining permission.

If needed, they may recommend a pre-application submission to the local council, providing initial feedback that can help you save money and adjust your proposal early on. Consultants will ensure that your application meets the council’s validation requirements, coordinating the necessary reports, surveys, and drawings. They work closely with architects, additional consultants, and the local community to bring your proposal to life, often drafting a planning statement to make your case stronger. Finally, they submit the application on your behalf.

Once submitted, the consultant’s role continues. They follow up with the planning officer, address any questions that may arise and leverage their relationship with the planning authority to help move the application along smoothly. They then relay the final decision, discuss any conditions and advise on next steps if necessary.

Next steps

As you can see the planning process is complex, with each project requiring unique steps based on its scale and scope. Having a planning consultant onboard simplifies this journey and provides invaluable peace of mind. For expert guidance on your project, visit our website here or reach out to our team at info@evolvepad.co.uk – we are here to help you succeed.