Planning & Development

Our specialist professional services brochure can be downloaded here, read more information about: Estate Management. Rural Professional. Tax Planning. Valuations. Agriculture. Planning and Development. Telecommunications. Estate Agency. Rural Agency and Lettings.

We can assist you with all aspects of the planning application process from; residential, commercial and rural developments, conversions, advice on Agricultural Occupancy Conditions, development in conservation areas and Listed Buildings, design and access statements,  permitted development rights to obtaining a certificate of  lawful use.

We can make representations on your behalf against a planning application, guide you through the Planning Appeals process, attend a Hearing or Public Inquiry, or make written representations. We can also assist you with Enforcement appeals and Lawful Use Certificate appeals.

Having the right knowledge to indentify a potentially profitable site requires not only a strong understanding of planning but also a sound knowledge of the commercial property market.  Whether looking to sell or acquire, our team of experts are highly experienced.

The threat of Planning Enforcement action can be very distressing.  Dealing promptly and with expert knowledge of planning law and procedure is essential. Such matters can frequently be resolved through a CLEUD, Retrospective Application, enforcement appeal or skilled negotiation.

Engaging with your Council in the preparation of the Local Development Framework can give you the opportunity to shape planning policy. We can advise you as to whether your land and/or buildings should be included as a development site and promote your land throughout the process.

Advice to councils:- neighbourhood development orders, preparation of plans, collecting planning evidence, written policies and presenting evidence at local inquiries. Public consultation and engagement in shaping local proposals, Liaising with the local planning authority, securing conformity with the council's plan (LDF)
 

Planning applications are often granted subject to conditions and the completion of legal agreements. The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) adds a new dimension. The negotiation of these can be critical to the feasibility of the development and the final value.

Enabling Development is a means of achieving a development, part of which is contrary to established planning policy.  Consent for some projects will only work if added value is created by the development, particularly in relation to schemes for historic buildings and sites of archaeological importance.
 

Careful analysis of local planning policy and the particular characteristics of the property concerned are vital in deciding what opportunities might be possible in developing a farm or estate and matching this to the client’s aspirations requires skill and attention to detail.

No scheme, however large or small, should commence without a full appraisal of cost, demand, risk, competition and value. Issues of tax, grant availability and finance must also be researched carefully.

Securing planning permission for more complicated schemes, particularly new build, can be expensive. Introducing a development partner could be the solution. Ensuring that you are adequately protected and remunerated requires very careful drafting and extensive experience.

An AOC is a planning condition which ties occupancy of a house to someone who works solely or mainly or last in agriculture, forestry or associated industry. The process of removal is complex, however, it is not impossible.