Planning Permission Explained
At Method Studio our aim throughout the planning process is to guide you every step of the way. But many people are often worried about those dreaded words: planning permission! ‘What type of planning permission do I need, how much will it cost, will I get approval for my project?’ Rest assured, Method Studio is always here to answer any questions about planning and this article will hopefully clear up some worries about this important stage of your project.
When do you need planning permission and how long does it take?
The gov.uk website states that you will need planning permission if you “Build something new, make a major change to your building, such as building an extension or change the use of your building.” However, depending on the scale of your project, permitted development might be an option. Permitted development is appropriate in some cases if the proposed plans meet guidelines that the planning authority have previously set out.
For other types of planning permissions, planning drawings are submitted to your local planning authority (LPA). From the time the application is submitted, it should usually take 8 weeks to get a decision.
Once your application is validated, the neighbourhood consultation period begins which lasts four weeks. The planning drawings are then made public and can be viewed by your neighbours who can add comments expressing their opinions on your project. The planners can then use these comments to help inform their decision. There’s no legal requirement for you to let your neighbours know when you’re making a planning application. However, neighbours will be consulted and invited to comment. Don’t worry though, only objections based on material considerations are ever taken into account.
Over many years working with different Local Authorities we have developed great relationship and connections. Once the consultation period is over Method Studio always endeavour to liaise with the planners to either see if we can get a decision earlier or make any minor adjustments in order to gain approval. If it looks like things won’t go the way we want despite this work we can already started discussing alternative options. Once the planning permission has been approved you can move full speed ahead with your project.
How much does planning permission cost?
The cost will depend on the type of application submitted for your project. The planning portal provides the most reliable guide on the price for each type of application.
How long does planning permission last?
Planning permission will expire after a certain time period — normally three years from the date full consent is granted, unless your permission says otherwise.
Will I get approval for my project?
Unfortunately, planning isn’t black and white and the outcome is not always as predictable as we hope it would be. That being said, here are a few things that your local planning authority will consider when deciding to grant planning permission. Planning permission is granted based on the LPA’s development plan. To decide whether a planning application fits with its development plan, an LPA will look at:
the number, size, layout, siting and external appearance of buildings
the infrastructure available, such as roads and water supply
any landscaping needs
what you want to use the development for
how your development would affect the surrounding area - for example, if it would create lots more traffic
But what if your application is rejected? Don’t panic, there are still options to progress your project. Take a look at our news article to find out more about the next steps, if your application is refused.
Hopefully this brief article has answered a few of those nagging questions about planning. Likely though, you have many more. If you do, please contact our team who are always available to talk through any worries or concerns you have about planning or your project in general.