Planning Services
Peter Richards & Co. offers clients a comprehensive planning service consisting of;
We pride ourselves on our ability to work closely with our clients and manage projects on their behalf across the residential property, commercial, and rural sectors.
Site Appraisal
A planning appraisal of a site is an important element of the service we provide to clients. The appraisal is an initial assessment of the planning prospects to achieve or promote development of a site and advice on how best to proceed.
In advising on the prospect of development, the additional work and the strategy to promote the site through the planning process will be explained.
The planning appraisal will review the relevant Planning history, appraise government policy / local plan status, consider material considerations and attempt to ascertain the likely section 106 contributions.
We feel this service provides the client with an inexpensive overview of the planning issues relating to a site/property allowing efforts and finances to be focused on opportunities most likely to secure a successful planning outcome.
Local Plan Representations
In promoting land through the development plan process there is a package of measures which needs to be implemented to ensure the site is given every opportunity of being developed. It includes carefully assessing and the production of the Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) and Local Development Frameworks (LDFs) produced by Local Planning Authorities (District and Borough Councils).
Both the RSS and LDF processes involve consultation and engagement opportunities at various stages of their production. Therefore submission of representations to examine, support or object to the development strategies proposed by councils is required to influence policy making and promote clients land.
When promoting clients land we feel it is important that engagement in the development plan process begins as early as possible. With Councils now requiring a significant amount of supporting material early on in the development plan production process, we are best placed to advise on a strategy tailored to the clients objectives.
Planning Applications
When preparing and submitting planning applications we work closely with the local authority and provide all the relevant information in an attempt to secure a positive decision quickly. Initial discussions are held with the relevant planning officers before preparation of the application.
Alongside scaled plans of the proposed development a Statutory requirement for most planning applications is a Design and Access Statement which illustrates, explains and justify the proposal. A Planning Statement is also prepared to illustrate that proposals satisfy planning policy or identify the considerations which need to be taken into account in reaching a decision.
Depending on the type of application being submitted specialist reports / statements such as a Town Centre Impact Statement, Community Consultation, Environmental Statements, Traffic Impact assessments may be required. In these circumstances we have established a network of specialist consultants who can produce the required reports.
Architecture & Design
Peter Richards & Co. work closely with several architectural practices providing the full range of architectural and design services. Our strong market awareness ensures architects and draftsmen are provided detailed briefs focused upon producing the most valuable scheme.
Alongside our architectural contacts we are experienced in both new build and refurbishment projects. We are able to undertake feasibility sketches, Measured Building Surveys, Scheme Design, Computer Modelling, Landscape Architecture through to Procurement and Tender Advice.
Planning Appeals
A planning appeal provides clients with a 'second chance' to overturn a refusal. The Appeal process allows an applicant to apply to the Planning Inspectorate to reassess an application. Typically appeals are made following the decision of a council to refuse planning permission, however appeals may be made if planning conditions granted are considered inappropriate, or a council fail to decide an application within the 8 or 13 week statutory period.
An appeal can be dealt with via Written Representations which involves an exchange of statements between the parties or a Hearing which enables the parties to present their case verbally usually in the form of a round-the-table discussion led by the Inspector or an Inquiry which is a more formal procedure than a hearing where evidence can be cross examined.
We are well placed to advise clients on the decision to appeal and if so the most suitable route of appeal.
Section 106 Negotiations
Under the current planning system councils frequently require applicants to enter into contractual agreements known as Section 106 Agreements, or when volunteered by an applicant, a Unilateral Undertaking. They can cover a multitude of issues including contributions to the cost of local services or infrastructure, affordable housing, future management of open space and many other issues which do not lend themselves to control by a planning condition.
We have successfully represented the interests of landowning and developer clients in negotiating such agreements ensuring there interests are protected at all times.