
Help with Planning Permission
The short of it is that you need planning permission for most development projects. Some projects fall under the rules for permitted development but we always recommend contacting your local council to confirm this is the case.
​
But the thought of preparing a planning application can be a daunting idea for many people. Surveying the site; preparing the drawings; submitting the paperwork. It's all a bit confusing.
​
This is where we can help, because at Roost, it's our job to know the process inside out.
​
-
Planning Permission
-
Permitted Development
-
Building Regulations Applications
-
Certificates Of Lawfulness
​
We can take care of everything and we have a very high success rate with the planning approval process.

What application does your project need?

Pre-Planning Application
Pre-planning applications are especially useful for specific types of projects, such as:
​
-
New Builds: When you’re constructing a new home or converting an existing structure.
-
Conservation Areas: If you wish to extend or convert a property in an area with planning restrictions.
-
Bold Design: If you intend to pursue a striking design that may not conform to the styles of nearby homes.
-
House Hunters: If you're interested in understanding a property's development potential before making a purchase.
​
Taking this step can facilitate a smoother planning process and increase the likelihood of a successful application. You’ll need to present a basic outline of your intended project, including details such as size, orientation, and fundamental design. This initial outline typically demands less detail than a standard planning application.
​
A planning officer from the local council can provide informal feedback on whether your proposal is in line with council planning policies. They may also point out design-related issues and recommend changes that could improve your chances of receiving approval. However, remember that this informal advice does not guarantee planning permission, as local stakeholders and neighbours will need to be informed and consulted as well. Having a friendly discussion with your neighbours about your plans can be advantageous, as it allows you to gauge their thoughts and possibly address any concerns they might have.

Full Planning Application
There are specific minimum document requirements that must accompany any planning application form. These include:
​
-
Site Location Plan: This will be a detailed map at a scale of 1:1250 or 1:2500, showing the proposed site outlined in red, along with any additional land you own marked in blue.
-
Block Plan: Also known as site plans, these need to be drawn at a scale of 1:500 and should illustrate the development site and its immediate surroundings, including site boundaries and nearby buildings.
-
Existing Project Drawings: We will provide drawings for your current property following our survey, including floor plans, elevations, roof plans, 3D views, and any other relevant information required.
-
Proposed Project Drawings: These will be similar to the existing drawings and must outline our proposed plans, including floor plans, elevations, roof plans, 3D views, and any other pertinent information needed for local requirements.
-
Additional Information: Some applications will require a planning statement outlining any exceptional circumstances required for your specific project. However, many local councils may request extra reports related to your project. This could be an arboriculture report, ecological assessment, considerations for protected species, and/or a flood risk evaluation. We can help connect you with professionals who can assist with these additional requirements.
Decision Outcomes...

Approval
Approval can be granted in two different ways: either as "granted in full" or as "granted with planning conditions."
​
Once your planning permission is approved, you typically have a period of up to three years to initiate the construction process. However, it’s important to note that some councils may choose to adjust this time frame, either by shortening it or extending it as needed, and they will explain their reasoning for any changes made. The specific conditions tied to your approval will be outlined in the decision notice you receive. If you do not commence construction within the stipulated time frame, you will be required to submit a new application for planning permission.
​
Should you wish to modify or discharge any of the conditions specified in your decision notice, we can complete a "discharge of condition" application form and submit it to the local council for consideration. This process allows you to seek adjustments to the initial requirements set forth in your planning permission.

Refusal
Don’t worry! A refusal of your application doesn’t mean the end of your project. Every application denial comes with a detailed explanation from the council outlining the reasons behind their decision.
You typically have a few options: you can amend your application based on the feedback and resubmit it or appeal the decision if you believe it was unjustified.

