Without the success of a planning application, your project won’t be able to go ahead – so it’s vital that you secure approval as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Creating a strong application is an essential part of the process, and makes it easy for the relevant authorities to sign off on your plans. See some of our top tips for submitting a powerful planning application that has a higher chance of success:
1. Understand what the authorities are looking out for
If you have a rich understanding of the exact policies that the local authorities will be checking against, you can create a strong application that combats each of these issues and gives the reviewer the confidence to sign off on your proposal. Make sure you’ve researched the particular policies that affect your property. How will it effect wildlife? Will the property overlook neighbours? Will it contribute to a loss of sunlight on surrounding areas? Will it generate a highway traffic issue? Being aware of this will ensure you can submit the necessary information to address these factors.
2. Get feedback from the local community
Your neighbours will have a chance to comment on your planning application, so getting buy-in from them is a key part of the process. Reaching out to them before you submit your application is a great way to build positive relationships and to hear about any concerns which you can then address in your application. If you receive positive feedback about your build then this is a great piece of information to include in your application, showing the relevant authorities that your project will fit in well with the local community.
3. Contact relevant organisations
If it’s likely that your project will run into challenges, such as conservation or flooding issues, then it’s useful to contact the relevant parties involved and use their findings to strengthen your application. Consider everyone, from environmental and utilities consultants to listed buildings and conservation organisations, and make sure that you have every aspect of your planning application covered. Getting feedback from these organisations will help you to preempt any issues which may undermine your application.
4. Communicate your vision with detailed plans
High quality and detailed plans are essential for the success of your planning application. Including professional and accurate designs is an integral part of gaining approval from the relevant authorities. A 3D model or VR walkthrough is a powerful asset that can be used – allowing your audience to step in and experience the completed project in real-time. This immersive experience gives your audience a better understanding of your final vision and is an effective way of giving them confidence to grant approval to your designs. Receiving approval relies on many stakeholders, from planning officers and parish councillors to neighbours – without clear plans misunderstandings can arise, and ultimately jeopardise your chances of approval.
Get support with your planning application today
If you need support with your planning application then our team can help. Our industry contacts means that we can get faster approval from the local council, and we’re experienced at putting together strong proposals that have a high chance of success. Find out more about the planning application process, and then get in touch today.
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