Planning Applications
We will make the strongest arguments in favour of a scheme
Drawing on extensive expertise and a commitment to navigating the intricacies of the system, Silverback Planning Solutions Ltd positively owns every planning application it undertakes by acting as a dedicated project champion for their clients. They meticulously handle all the complex details and paperwork, effectively saving clients time and mitigating potential financial losses from rejections or delays. By treating each application with the same care and attention as if it were for their own family, Silverback Planning Solutions ensures a proactive approach, smoothing the way and expertly removing obstacles to guide applications successfully through the planning process.
Acting as a proactive champion, we fully embraces each application, guiding it through the process to keep client objectives central.
Leveraging expertise, we meticulously manage all intricate details and paperwork, effectively removing obstacles for successful outcomes.
Treating every application with personalized care and attention, they proactively manage potential issues to avoid costly delays or rejections.
Submitting a planning application is the formal step required to gain permission for most building works, extensions, or changes of use in the UK. While it may seem like a straightforward administrative process, a successful planning application requires meticulous preparation, a thorough understanding of planning policy, and the ability to effectively present a compelling case to the local planning authority (LPA). Errors or omissions at this stage can lead to delays, requests for further information, or even refusal.
Silverback Planning Solutions specialises in preparing, submitting, and managing planning applications on behalf of our clients. With our extensive experience and in-depth knowledge of the planning system, we guide your application smoothly through the process, maximising its chances of approval.
What is a Planning Application?
A planning application is a formal submission to the local planning authority requesting permission to carry out ‘development’ – which, in planning terms, includes building, engineering, mining or other operations in, on, over or under land, or the making of any material change in the use of any buildings or1 other land.
A typical planning application package includes:
- Completed Application Forms: Providing details about the applicant, the site, and the proposed development.
- Location Plan: Identifying the site’s location in its surroundings.
- Site Plan (Block Plan): Showing the boundary of the site and the layout of existing and proposed buildings.
- Existing and Proposed Drawings: Detailed architectural drawings (floor plans, elevations, sections) showing the current state of the site and the proposed changes.
- Design and Access Statement (for certain application types): Explaining the design principles and concepts and how access to the development will be provided.
- Planning Statement: A written document that explains the proposal, assesses it against relevant planning policies, and justifies why permission should be granted.
- Supporting Technical Reports: Depending on the nature and location of the development, this could include reports on transport, ecology, heritage, flood risk, contamination, or arboriculture.
- The Correct Fee: A statutory fee payable to the local authority, the amount of which depends on the type and scale of the development.
There are various types of planning applications, including Householder Applications (for extensions and alterations to existing homes), Full Planning Applications (for new buildings or significant changes), Outline Applications (seeking permission in principle), and applications for Listed Building Consent or Advertisement Consent.
Why is Professional Help with Planning Applications Essential?
While it is possible to submit a planning application yourself, engaging a planning consultant offers significant advantages:
- Expert Understanding of Policy: We possess a deep understanding of national and local planning policies and can accurately interpret how they apply to your specific proposal.
- Comprehensive Application Package: We ensure that all necessary forms, drawings, and supporting documents are correctly prepared and submitted, avoiding delays caused by invalid applications.
- Strong Justification: We write persuasive Planning Statements that clearly articulate the planning merits of your proposal and demonstrate its compliance with relevant policies.
- Coordination of Supporting Information: We can identify and coordinate the work of other specialist consultants (e.g., architects, ecologists, transport engineers) to ensure that all necessary technical reports are provided and integrated into the application.
- Effective Communication with the LPA: We act as your agent, managing all communication with the planning officer and addressing any queries or requests for further information promptly and effectively.
- Negotiation and Problem Solving: If issues arise during the application process, we can negotiate with the planning officer and propose solutions to overcome obstacles.
- Saving Time and Stress: We manage the entire process, freeing up your time and reducing the stress associated with navigating the planning system.
- Increased Likelihood of Approval: By submitting a high-quality, well-argued application, we significantly improve your chances of obtaining planning permission.
The Silverback Approach to Planning Applications
Our approach to planning applications is meticulous and proactive. We believe that a well-prepared submission is the key to a smooth and successful process.
Our process typically involves:
- Detailed Project Understanding: We begin by thoroughly understanding your proposed development, your objectives, and any feedback received from pre-application discussions (if applicable).
- Assembly of the Application Package: We work with you and any other members of your project team (e.g., architects) to gather and prepare all necessary forms, plans, drawings, and supporting documents.
- Preparation of the Planning Statement: We draft a comprehensive Planning Statement that sets out the planning policy context, describes the proposal in detail, assesses its impacts, and provides a robust justification for granting permission.
- Coordination of Supporting Reports: We identify any necessary technical assessments and can recommend and coordinate the work of trusted specialist consultants.
- Quality Assurance: We meticulously review the entire application package to ensure it is accurate, complete, and meets all validation requirements of the local authority.
- Submission: We submit the application electronically via the Planning Portal or directly to the local authority as required.
- Monitoring and Liaison: We closely monitor the application’s progress, confirm its validation, and act as the primary point of contact for the planning officer.
- Responding to Queries: We promptly and effectively respond to any requests for further information or clarification from the planning officer or consultees.
- Negotiation: If necessary, we engage in negotiations with the planning officer to address concerns or explore potential modifications to the proposal.
- Tracking and Updates: We keep you informed of the application’s progress throughout the determination period.
Putting Our Expertise to Work for You
Our experience working within local authority planning departments provides us with a distinct advantage. We understand the internal processes, the priorities of planning officers, and the common reasons for refusal. This allows us to anticipate potential issues and proactively address them in your application.
We are skilled in:
- Policy Interpretation: Translating complex planning jargon into clear and compelling arguments.
- Case Presentation: Structuring the application documents to present your project in the most favourable light.
- Issue Identification and Resolution: Foreseeing potential challenges and developing strategies to overcome them.
- Effective Communication: Building positive working relationships with planning officers and consultees.
Submitting a planning application is a significant step in any development project. By entrusting this process to Silverback Planning Solutions, you can be confident that your application is in expert hands, giving you the best possible chance of achieving planning permission.
Contact us today to discuss your project and how our planning application services can help you achieve your development goals.
Descriptions
Drawing from our experience we simplify the often-complicated process of making a planning application for our clients. Our deep understanding, built over many years, of what local councils are looking for and how to present a project effectively makes us an invaluable ally for our clients. We handle all the detailed paperwork and requirements efficiently, saving clients considerable time and helping them avoid common mistakes that can lead to delays or problems. Our experience means we can anticipate potential issues and address them early on, making the application process smoother and less stressful for the client.
Whether it’s a simple home change or a more involved development, we apply the same level of experienced handling. We understand how to clearly explain the project and its benefits to the planning authorities, using our knowledge to give each application the best chance of success right from the start. This focus on experienced, careful preparation during the initial application phase is a key part of how they take ownership of the process for their clients.
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