What can we do for you?

The planning process is complex and often confusing.  Having someone who understands the ‘planners’ language can therefore be beneficial, whether you are undertaking a project yourself, or are concerned about the possible effects of a nearby development.  On your behalf we can advise on, and submit applications for,

• Domestic and commercial development;
• Changes of use of buildings and land;
• Listed Building and Conservation Area consents;
• Consent to display advertisements;
• Building Warrants; and
• Works to protected trees.

We can also assist with the:

• Interpretation of planning policy and legislation;
• Undertaking of negotiations with Council officers in order to resolve issues and gain approval;
• Preparation of appeal submissions, and the presentation of evidence at Planning Hearings and Inquiries;
• Resolution of issues relating to planning enforcement and compliance with conditions attached to planning permissions; and
• Sale and purchase of properties in situations where the necessary planning and building warrant approvals have not been previously obtained

Our experienced CAD Technician can survey your property, and can prepare all of the plans and drawings necessary to support your application.  Furthermore, as independent planning consultants we are also able to work with the best associated professionals in order to secure planning permission for you.  Depending on the nature of a development proposal, we can brief and engage on your behalf the following:

• Architects:  Where issues of design and sustainability are critical we can help you find the right Architect.  We work successfully with a number of local practices, and can always ensure that any appointment will meet your requirements;
• Land Surveyors:  The majority of development sites are not flat.  In order to best accommodate new development a topographical survey will often be the first step in the planning process;
• Arboricultural Consultants:  Where the proposed development might impact upon trees which are either protected, or which it is anticipated that the Planning Authority may wish to see retained, a tree survey will be often required;
• Flood Risk Consultants:  Where a site is within a flood risk zone it is nearly always a requirement that a Flood Risk Assessment is prepared and submitted alongside a planning application;
• Archaeological Consultants:  Many sites potentially hide archaeological remains.  The Planning Authority may require an archaeological investigation to be undertaken where a ‘trigger’ is present;
• Ecological Consultants:  Species such as bats, owls and newts are protected by law, and it is an offence to disturb them or to damage their habitats.  Where a site is potentially occupied by a protected species, a survey and mitigation plan will be required; and
• Traffic Consultants:  Where a new development has the potential to develop a significant amount of additional traffic movements, it is usually necessary to submit a Traffic Impact Assessment.