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Initial advice
Our first contact with many clients is to advise them of the development potential
of their land; often resulting in substantial increases in its value.
Planning applications
Development proposals need to be planning led from the outset.
Planning applications are subject to increasing scrutiny as environmental
legislation becomes ever more influential. Listed buildings, flood plains,
endangered species, contaminated land, transport choice, noise and access
are a few of the considerations faced by applicants.
Building an expert team
We can advise clients on all of these issues. Where other exert advice is required, we can instruct other
professionals who we know are capable and sensitive to planning and commercial requirements.
Planning appeals
Many planning applications we prepare are negotiated through to a successful conclusion.
But planning is a controversial subject and Councillors are subject to neighbour pressures
to refuse some developments. Our advice is always formed with a view to the possibility of
an appeal to the government. |
Planning enforcement
Sometimes people get caught up in planning enforcement action,
often following neighbour complaint to the Council. We can
often assist in such cases by making sure of the facts and arguing
the case with the local planning authority (LPA). There may be no
unlawful development, or a planning application gains permission for the use.
In some cases it may be possible to show that the development has existed for
long enough to not be enforced against - and a lawful development certificate gained.
Enforcement negotiations and appeals
Often, we can resolve concerns without the service of an
enforcement notice but, if not, there may be grounds for appeal.
We can work with clients to make the appeal and act for them as an expert witness.
Development plans
The UK's planning system is plan-led with development expected to
conform to development plan policies. Whilst beneficial development
can occur contrary to policy, clients who can take a long term view
often seek changes to development plans during their regular reviews.
This may be an allocation for housing or industry, or changing the
green belt boundary. If successful, property values can be greatly
enhanced. We undertake this work, and if instructed early enough
we can negotiate changes with the council, or make reasoned objections
to the emerging plan for the planning Inspector to consider.
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