Planning & Development

Please download our range of expert services brochure.
Click here

Free Planning Surgeries with Nicholas Ide at Plumpton College. Dates now available:  To book in please telephone Plumpton College 01273 892052

From simple extensions, to major residential or commercial developments.
- Planning permission for new buildings, extensions and changes of use in town and country

- Residential, commercial and rural development planning consents
- Barn and other property conversions
- Lifting restrictive Agricultural Occupancy Conditions
- Development in Conservation Areas
- Listed Buildings and curtilage listed buildings
- Design and Access Statements & Planning Statements
- Permitted Development rights
- Lawful Use Certificates

Whether appealing a decision to refuse  your application, or making representations against a planning application that may affect you. 

- Planning appeals, hearings, written representations and Public Inquiry

- Enforcement appeals

- Lawful Use Certificate appeal

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 local Council in the preparation of its new plan, the Local Development Framework, can provide you with the opportunity to shape planning policy. We can advise whether land and/or buildings in your ownership should be included in the plan as a development site. We have a portfolio of sites throughout the South East and beyond where we assess site feasibility, prepare a planning case and give evidence at Public Examination. The Government has and will continue to change the rules of engagement. We have the experience and flexibility to respond.

Professional advice to parish or town councils on all aspects including:-

- Neighbourhood development orders

- Preparation of neighbourhood plans, including 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.

Strict rules govern Enabling Development. Enabling Development remains a means of achieving a scheme of development, part of which is contrary to established planning policy.  It is a fact that some projects will only work if added value is created through additional development, particularly in relation to schemes for historic buildings and sites of archaeological importance.
 

Deciding what opportunities exist on a farm or estate entails careful analysis of local planning policy and the particular characteristics of the property concerned. Matching this to the landowner's objectives and preference requires skill and attention to detail as does the central understanding of whether the development is required to generate new income or is to be sold to raise capital.

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 larger or more complicated schemes, particularly for new build, can be very expensive. Introducing a development partner can often prove the solution. This may involve the negotiation of an Option or Promotion agreement. Ensuring that you are adequately protected and remunerated requires very careful drafting and extensive experience. Selection of the development partner themselves is critical, to ensure that they also have the skills and focus to deliver the planning consent you are looking for.