Professional assistance on a wide range of planning issues
Whether the requirement is from a developer or an owner, George Webb Finn can help by providing detailed advice on numerous issues such as; land use appraisals, feasibility studies, planning applications, enforcement notices and the preparation of planning appeals.
How much or how little the firm is involved is at the discretion of the client.
Planning Applications and Appeals
New, longer planning application forms have recently been introduced and Planning Authorities require more details to be submitted at application stage than ever before. Most applications now also have to include a Design and Access Statement.
Our qualified Planning Consultant has many years local experience in preparing and submitting a wide range of applications for Clients, including residential, commercial agricultural, equestrian, leisure and farm diversification. All Clients’ applications are monitored during the period between submission and decision so that objections are identified and if possible, overcome; with regular Client feedback. If necessary we also attend and speak at Planning Committees.
We also deal with applications for Lawful Development Certificates as well as Planning Appeals and Enforcement Appeals, working with other professionals and experts as and when appropriate. This can include acting as expert witness and undergoing cross-examination.
Local Plans and Local Development Frameworks (LDF)
These are the “Planning Bibles” which identify the main sites for future residential and commercial developments and set out the policies against which planning applications will be assessed. Local Plans are being replaced by LDFs over the next few years.
It is very important to put potential development sites forward at the right time and to follow these up during the LDF preparation process to maximise their likely inclusion in the final version.
In some cases it may be appropriate to enter into an option agreement with a developer who will then take responsibility for your site during the LDF process.
We have a specialist, qualified Planning Consultant with extensive experience of this work and local contacts in several Local Planning Authorities. We also have considerable experience in negotiating option agreements with developers.
Land use and Development Appraisals
We can advise on alternative land uses and appraise the development potential of land and buildings. Such advise can be critical when clients are considering the sale or purchase of property, when issues such as overage and clawback can come into play.