Pre-Application & Advisory Support
Pre-Application & Advisory Support focuses on establishing a clear planning strategy before a formal application is submitted. This stage includes planning feasibility assessments, use class analysis (Class E, C3, C4, Sui Generis, etc.), and planning route recommendations based on site constraints and local policy. Where appropriate, pre-application submissions are prepared to obtain early feedback from the local planning authority and reduce approval risk.
Our Advisory Services
Feasibility Assessment
A site visit and a written review of what is realistically achievable – planning constraints, likely layout and the main risks – before you commit to drawings or a purchase.
Use Class Reviews
We confirm the lawful use of the building and the route to the use you want, including permitted development, prior approval, Article 4 Directions and when a Lawful Development Certificate makes sense.
Planning Route Advice
Householder, full application, prior approval or LDC: we set out the right route, what it needs, how long it usually takes and where the risks sit.
Local Authority Engagement
Where it helps, we prepare and manage formal pre-application enquiries with the council, so their feedback shapes the design before the application is made.
Planning Policy Review
We read the local plan, design guides and any Conservation Area appraisal that applies to your site, and turn them into clear design parameters.
Stakeholder Consultation
On sensitive sites we help you plan early conversations with neighbours, freeholders and other stakeholders, so concerns are understood before they become objections.
Our Process
A structured approach that gives you clarity at every stage — before any costs are committed to a formal application.
01
Initial Consultation & Site Review
We begin with a detailed discussion of your project ambitions and conduct a desktop review of the site, surrounding context, and relevant planning history.
Planning history
Site constraints
Free initial call
02
Policy & Feasibility Analysis
A comprehensive review of local and national planning policy, identifying opportunities, constraints, and likely officer stance toward your development.
Local Plan review
NPPF compliance
Risk assessment
03
Pre-Application Submission or Officer Meeting
Where appropriate, we prepare and submit formal pre-application enquiries to the Local Planning Authority, or attend pre-app meetings on your behalf.
Officer meeting
Written enquiry
LPA dialogue
04
Advisory Report & Recommendations
We issue a clear advisory report setting out the planning position, recommended application route, and any design or policy considerations to address.
Written report
Application strategy
Next steps
The Value of Early Advice
Reduce application risk
Understand the planning position before investing in detailed design and application fees.
Save time and cost
Avoid costly redesigns and resubmissions by resolving key issues at the earliest stage.
Inform design decisions
Planning feedback directly shapes design development, ensuring proposals are policy-compliant from the outset.
Build officer relationships
Early engagement creates goodwill and an open dialogue with the LPA before a formal application is submitted.
"PLANEST's pre-application advice gave us complete clarity before we invested in detailed design. Their officer engagement was invaluable."
Private residential client, London
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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.