Planning applications of any scale are rarely straightforward. Our team can offer a full assessment of a site and the potential constraints for any development proposals. The planning department undertakes these on a daily basis. We offer advice without obligation with a wholly pragmatic approach. If our team have concerns regarding the outcome of the proposed application, we will inform you of such, to save you time and money. The planning department can help to simplify the planning process, reduce time delay and project manage your application for your peace of mind.

At Stanfords, we care about the detail. The depth and breadth of our planning department’s knowledge can assist in delivering all planning applications, whether that be an outline, full or householder application, prior approval, change of use, reserved matters, lawful development certificates, discharge of conditions or listed building consent. Some applications may be determined at a Planning Committee, our planning professionals can attend these meetings on your behalf to ensure a positive outcome.

We are local experts in discussion with the planning officers at the surrounding Councils on a daily basis. With this, we can bridge the gap between the planning authorities and applicants.

Any planning application which is refused by the Council has the right to an appeal to the Secretary of State’s Planning Inspectorate. However, the appeal process can be a procedural minefield. Our planning department has vast knowledge of planning appeals and can ensure that the best case is lodged with the Planning Inspectorate, who has the ability to overturn the Council’s decision. We are also well-versed in applications for an award of costs at the appeal stage. This is where we can prove unreasonable behaviour of the Council’s conduct, and if successful this can result in monies being paid to the client by the Council for the unnecessary expense of going to appeal.

Commencement and completion of an unauthorised development can be subject to enforcement action. This means that ultimately you can face the removal of the development and in some instances court action. This can be a difficult hurdle to overcome. Our planners are skilled in communication with enforcement officers at the Councils and most importantly understanding what does and does not require planning permission. If you receive any contact from an enforcement officer, or are served a Planning Contravention Notice or Breach of Condition Notice, our team can handle the case for you as a matter of priority.