Planning Permission Advice

At 4D Planning, our team of Chartered Planning Consultants offers expertise in producing feasibility site appraisals and pre-application reports to advise homeowners and property developers on the potential of a property to extend or convert, as well as guidance on how to obtain planning permission in a timely and cost-effective manner. We cover all parts of Greater London for assistance with planning applications: North London, East London, South London and West London, and Hertfordshire. See our case studies to see which projects we have worked on in your area.

With offices in London and Manchester, there is no part of the UK which we don't cover. We handle each project with confidentiality and professionalism. If you'd like a free consultation to get planning permission advice, simply get in touch with your name, property address, and brief proposal to receive expert planning advice.

We can produce a Planning Statement or Design and Access Statement with a professional and clear description of the proposed development, how it relates and adheres to relevant planning policies and put forward a strong and convincing argument to the local Council why the development should be approved.

Applying for pre application advice from the Council or obtaining a feasibility report from 4D Planning for specific residential and commercial developments is a smart move, as it can save time and money, especially if the development is ambitious or if there are many planning considerations which need to be considered. 

Get in touch now to discuss your project and to request a quote and feasibility assessment.

Once the feasibility of the proposal is established, the next phase is to obtain the architectural drawings and to design the scheme. A site measured survey is carried out at the property to gather all the dimensions and required information of the existing site. 4D Planning has in-house architectural designers, CAD technicians and surveyors who will assist the client in implementing any ideas into reality. The emphasis will be on ensuring that the design will be granted planning permission.

We aim to stand out from other architect companies, by providing a professional service with an emphasis on planning and how to obtain planning permission for projects in London and Manchester in the quickest possible way and competitively. We design each scheme to meet all relevant planning policy and planning guidance while also considering the client's preferences and requirements. We advise our clients on planning permission loopholes and how to best achieve the results that are set out. When a scheme is not feasible we advise our clients and offer an honest professional opinion in writing that the scheme/proposal is not feasible and which alternative development scenarios may be considered (if applicable).

The conversion of existing dwellings into flats, houses in multiple occupation and apartments, and the conversion of buildings in other uses, can make an important contribution to the provision of housing, in particular the provision of small units, which are in short supply. Also, conversions can make more effective use of urban land and promote sustainable development. However, conversions can harm the amenity of neighbouring occupiers by reason of increased noise, disturbance and activity, because they normally involve an intensification of use. They can also adversely affect the appearance of street scenes through the provision of hardstanding in front gardens to form off-street car parking and dustbin enclosures. The cumulative effect of conversions is that they can damage the quality of the environment and be detrimental to the character of established residential areas. 

Flat conversions must therefore be situated in appropriate locations. More acceptable locations include areas in or adjacent to town centres or easily accessible to public transport, along major roads, and areas characterised by non-family units such as flats, bedsits, Houses in Multiple Occupation, hotels and guest houses. In roads characterised by houses in single family occupation, conversions would not normally be appropriate, as it is in these areas that housing meets a need for larger homes to balance housing provided in town centres. The council will consider parking provision an important factor in such schemes. 

Get in touch for our assistance to establish whether your property has potential to be converted into flats.

Obtaining planning permission for any kind of development can be a complex process, particularly if the property is located within a conservation area. There are several steps you can take to increase your chances of success:

1. Research: It's important to research the local planning policies and regulations that apply to your property, particularly if it is located in a conservation area. This will help you to understand the constraints and opportunities for development. Get in touch with 4D Planning to research the feasibility of your proposal on your behalf.
2. Consultation: It's a good idea to discuss your plans with the local planning authority (pre-application advice), particularly if you have any concerns about the feasibility of your proposal or how it may impact the conservation area. You may also want to consult with a planning consultant from 4D Planning or architect to ensure that your plans are feasible and meet the local planning requirements.
3. Preparation: Once you have a clear understanding of the local planning policies and regulations, you can begin to prepare your planning application. This will typically involve preparing detailed architectural drawings, plans, and supporting planning documents, such as a design and access statement and a planning statement etc.
4. Submission: Once your application is complete, your application will be submitted to the local council. There is usually a council fee to process the application. It is important to ensure that you have included all the necessary information and documentation or the application will not be processed or it could be determined unsuccessfully.
5. Review: The planning authority will review your application and may request further information or modifications to your proposal. It's important to be responsive and cooperative throughout this process to ensure that your application is approved. 4D Planning will liaise with the case officer to ensure that all matters are considered and that your application has a high chance of success.
6. Appeal: If your application is refused, you may have the option to appeal the decision. This will typically involve presenting your case to an independent planning inspector. 4D Planning can assist with preparing the appeal. See here.

It's worth noting that the specific requirements for obtaining planning permission can vary depending on the location and nature of the proposed development. Therefore, it's always a good idea to seek advice from a qualified planning consultant from 4D Planning or an architect who can guide you through the process and help to ensure the best possible outcome. Get in touch today by calling: 02031500183 or email: enquiries@4dplanning.com