Planning Applications
Planning Applications involve the preparation and management of formal submissions to secure planning consent. We coordinate a full range of applications including Full Planning, Householder, Retrospective, Prior Approval, Lawful Development Certificates (LDC), Advertisement Consent, Change of Use, and Mixed-Use proposals. Each submission is structured to align with local planning policy, site conditions, and statutory requirements.
Our Planning Application Services
We manage a wide range of planning applications, providing expert guidance and preparing robust submissions that meet policy and statutory requirements.
FIND THE RIGHT PLANNING ROUTE
Not Sure Which Application Route You Need?
Every project requires a different planning route. Use the most common scenarios below to understand which type of planning application is likely to apply to your project.
Which of these sounds like you?
PD rights may be restricted in conservation areas, Article 4 areas, or if your home is a flat.
Recommended application type
Depending on the size and location, your extension may fall within Permitted Development rights — meaning no formal permission is needed. A Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) confirms this legally. Where PD rights don't apply, a Householder Planning Application is required.
'' I'd like to add a rear extension, side return, or turn the loft into a usable room.''
Listed buildings require Listed Building Consent regardless of planning permission — even for internal works.
Recommended application type
Physical changes to a commercial exterior or significant internal reconfiguration require a Full Planning Application. If you're also updating signage, Advertisement Consent will be needed separately.
'' I'm updating my shopfront, adding extraction, or reorganising the inside of my commercial unit.''
Common PD routes include office-to-residential (Class MA) and certain commercial-to-residential conversions.
Recommended application type
Some changes of use are permitted development and only require Prior Approval — a quicker process. Others require a Full Planning Application. The right route depends on the existing and proposed use classes
''I'm thinking of turning a shop into a flat, an office into a café, or a house into an HMO.''
Common PD routes including the conversion of upper floors above retail or commercial premises into one or two flats, changes between compatible commercial uses, and the reuse of existing buildings for residential or mixed-use purposes can provide a faster and more practical route where the proposal meets the relevant conditions and prior approval requirements.
Recommended application type
Adding dwellings above existing commercial premises may qualify under Prior Approval. More complex proposals or new-build elements will require a Full Planning Application.
''I own a building and want to add residential units above it, or convert part of it into flats''
Some small non-illuminated signs fall under deemed consent, but strict rules on size and position apply.
Recommended application type
Displaying an advertisement — whether a simple fascia sign or illuminated board — requires Advertisement Consent under the Advertisement Regulations. This is separate from planning permission.
'' I need a new fascia sign, projecting sign, or illuminated display for my business.''
In England, most planning breaches are now subject to a 10-year enforcement period, although older building works completed before 25 April 2024 may still fall under the previous 4-year rule. Do not delay seeking advice.
Recommended application type
It's possible to apply for planning permission after the fact. Acting promptly gives you the best chance of regularising the situation.
'' Building work was completed on my property but planning permission was never sought at the time.''
Carrying out works to a listed building without consent is a criminal offence with no time limit for prosecution — always seek advice before starting.
Recommended application type
Any works that would affect the character of a listed building — including internal alterations, repairs using non-original materials, and extensions — require Listed Building Consent. This applies regardless of whether planning permission is also needed, and regardless of the building's grade (I, II* or II).
''My property is listed and I want to make alterations, extensions, or repairs - even minor internal changes.''
01
Initial Consultation
We understand your project, objectives, and site context.
02
Assessment & Strategy
We assess planning policy and develop the best application strategy.
03
Preparation
We prepare all necessary documents, plans, and supporting information.
04
Submission
We submit your application and liaise with the local planning authority.
05
Determination
We manage the process through to decision and advise on next steps.
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Licensing & Local Authority Consents
Operational approval submissions required to ensure commercial premises comply with local authority licensing and operational requirements.
Building Regulations Submissions
Technical compliance submissions required to demonstrate that proposed works meet Building Regulations and statutory construction standards.