Planning Permission

Before the design phase can even begin, we need to assess the viability of your project. Later, you’ll need to secure planning permission, which is a complex process that feels daunting to many people. 

Having secured planning permission for countless projects since our conception in 2006, we’re the experts in all aspects of the process. While no application is ever guaranteed to be accepted, we’ll arm you with everything you need to increase your chances of getting your project green-lighted. 

First, we’ll advise you on the type of application your proposal falls under; see our guide to the types of planning permission applications below. We’ll work to ensure your application meets all the criteria while also accounting for every potential problem. Should setbacks arise, we’ll negotiate with the council on your behalf and provide a revised planning application if necessary.  

We’ll provide detailed drawings to present to the local authority and work closely with you to submit a comprehensive design and access statement. This attention to detail will show the level of planning that has gone into your design. Crucially, it will establish how your proposal will affect neighbours and the wider community, which in turn, affects your chances of gaining approval. 

Occasionally, additional reports are needed to demonstrate that all areas of the design and planning process have been covered. In this instance, we can connect you with recommended specialist consultants who provide this service.

We have a proven success rate with planning applications that we’re incredibly proud of. We’re confident we can deliver the outcome you want and need! You won’t be kept in the dark about any requirements, developments or setbacks during the application process. Similarly, you won’t be left to negotiate the sensitive and complex process of gaining planning permission by yourself. If you’d like Plan Masters to handle your planning permission application, get in touch with our friendly, knowledgeable team.

This handy guide will help you understand the type of application your project falls under. It should also give you a clearer idea of what’s involved in the planning application process. 

Pre-Planning Application

Also known as pre-planning advice, this is sometimes required before submitting a formal planning application. It’s typically required for larger, more unusual projects and for most new build dwellings. The planning officer will provide general thoughts on the project; the property’s design and layout can then be amended accordingly. 

Permitted Development

This was introduced by the council in an attempt to speed up the planning process; it guarantees approval for extensions that comply with certain guidelines. As a general rule, permitted development covers minor house alterations, loft conversions, garage conversions and small extensions.

Certain areas of the UK (and flats and maisonettes) are exempt from Permitted Development. For this reason, it’s recommended you apply for a Certificate of Lawful Development to confirm your proposal is lawful. This may also be important if you come to sell your property in the future. Applications take around 6 weeks to be processed. 

Neighbourhood Consultation Scheme (NCS)

An NCS is an application that doubles the permitted development restrictions in the case of single-storey rear extensions. For detached houses, you’ll be permitted to build up to 8 metres from the rear of your property. For all other houses, the restriction is up to 6 metres. 

When the council receives your application, they’ll contact your direct neighbours to determine whether they’re for or against your proposal. A decision will be made that considers the neighbours’ comments. NCS applications are processed in around 42 days. 

Planning Consent

If your proposal does not comply with Permitted Development or Neighbourhood Consultation Scheme guidelines, planning consent is necessary.

Certain projects will always require planning consent: new build dwellings, alterations to the street-facing elevation and dividing a property into two or more homes. While permitted development applications are decided based on certain strict guidelines, planning applications are subjectively considered based on several different restrictions. These differ from council to council. 

The above applications will require you to submit a scaled plan of your proposal and a location plan based on a current ordnance survey map. Applications are typically processed within 8 weeks of validation, though busy periods can cause delays. Once approval is given by the council, you can proceed to the building regulation stage and construction can begin. 

Applying for Planning Permission is a Daunting Task

So let the experts at Plan Masters handle it for you! Our skilled administration team will work closely with the planning department to ensure approval is given as soon as possible. We know the exact council requirements in boroughs all across London; we also know you want to avoid any potential pitfalls and get your project up and running! Our team of professionals will give you the best chance of succeeding with your planning application. All you have to do is start dreaming of your design becoming a reality. 

Get in Touch Today for Planning Permission Assistance

If you’re eager to get your project started, make us your first port of call! Our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to help with any questions you may have. Advice is free, and crucially, it’s indispensable. Contact us today.