Planning Permission

Extensive Research

As an RIBA Chartered Practice we do much more than simply ‘knock out drawings’.

When we are approached by a new client there is significant and diligent background research and analysis carried out for the project. On appointment we will consider the site:

• What is the planning history?
• What is the village plan for the area?
• What is the local plan of the relevant local authority
• What are the current national policies in relation to the site?
• Have there been recent relevant appeals which can provide a basis for developing policy?

Additionally, we will look at permitted development rights.  Finally, we will need to ascertain if there are any restrictions on the site.  Once all this research is undertaken we then move on to consider the client’s requirements and what they are hoping to achieve with their budget.

Ancillary reports and surveys

In addition to the above research there are now extensive reports which require being commissioned to support a planning application. These could include a Landscape Impact Assessment, Ecological surveys (bats, newts etc.), Heritage Impact Assessment, Transport Report, Dark Skies Lighting Assessment.

Where necessary we work alongside specialist consultants to commission these reports required at the correct time. Clients are often caught unawares at the amount of work which needs to be commissioned in order to simply seek approval to build an extension onto their listed house.

James has completed countless homes over the years, including conversions, extensions, refurbishment and new builds in both urban and rural settings. The planning process has only become more complicated over this time.

If you are considering building work on your home or looking to buy a property with a view to carrying out improvements and undertaking building work, it is worth talking to an architect before you go ahead with your purchase to avoid disappointment.