Cornwall planning application process

At Marraum, we understand the excitement that comes with planning a beautiful new home in Cornwall. Whether it’s a contemporary home hugging the rugged coastlines or a rustic barn conversion in the heart of the countryside, Cornwall hosts potential for spaces like no other location in the UK.

Your project can be brought to life by our team of specialists - with the planning application process is a key step towards your dream space. We’re here to help you understand everything you need for a successful application.

UNDERSTANDING THE CORNWALL PLANNING PROCESS

The process begins with you: following a successful concept design stage, our expert team will work with you to develop your application, informed by our local knowledge and any site constraints to produce a robust and coherent application.

From there, we can submit the planning application, and the ball is rolling:

Initial assessment

After submission, the planning application undergoes an initial assessment to ensure all necessary documentation is provided. This stage can take up to two weeks.

Public consultation

During the consultation period, local residents and interested parties are invited to comment on the planning applications. This typically lasts for twenty one days.

Decision-making

Following the consultation, the planning officer reviews all comments and assesses the proposal against local planning policies. A decision is usually made within eight weeks from the application validation date.

This period includes time for public consultation and the assessment of any objections or support from the community.

In some cases, particularly for more complex projects, the process may take longer, potentially extending to thirteen weeks or more. It's essential to ensure that all documents are complete and accurately presented to avoid delays.

CORNWALL’S PLANNING POLICIES

Cornwall has a robust framework of planning policies designed to protect its unique environment and heritage while accommodating sustainable development across the county.

Cornwall Local Plan

This vital document outlines the overarching strategy for development in the region, including housing, economic growth, and environmental protection. It provides specific policies that applications must comply with.

Neighbourhood plans

Many councils in Cornwall have developed their own neighbourhood plans, which address local priorities and provide more detailed planning guidance for specific areas.

Supplementary planning documents (SPDs)

These documents provide additional detail on important and specific topics, such as design guidelines, heritage conservation, and affordable housing.

Understanding these policies can help you prepare a compliant and well-supported planning application.

NAVIGATING THE CORNWALL PLANNING APPLICATION PROCESS

With over 10 years of experience crafting bespoke renovations and new builds across Cornwall, we’ve stacked up 550+ unique projects. From eco-conscious new builds, challenging redesigns and modernising period properties, our team have the local expertise and knowledge to support your entire application process, from developed designs to planning application documents. While discussing your vision with you, our team will help you consider a few key hurdles that you may have tackle:

Environmental concerns

Cornwall’s natural environment is a significant consideration. Ensuring that your proposal minimises environmental impact and complies with relevant policies is crucial. Conducting environmental assessments and working with experts can help address these concerns.

Heritage considerations

It’s hard to find a place in Cornwall without historical importance, such is the county’s rich heritage. However, some locations are more protected than others - if your proposal affects a listed building or a conservation area, additional scrutiny is required. Consulting with heritage experts and incorporating their recommendations can help you navigate these challenges.

Community objections

Opposition from local residents can be a significant hurdle. Engaging with the community early, addressing their concerns, and demonstrating the benefits of your proposal can help mitigate objections.

Chat with us today, or check out our range of projects across Cornwall:

Our projects

IMPROVING YOUR PLANNING APPLICATION CHANCES WITH LOCAL EXPERTISE

With deep-rooted knowledge from coast to coast, our team will set you up with the best chances of a successful application. After teaming with you to ensure your vision is attainable, achievable and set up to be approved, Cornwall Council consultation is a vital part of the planning process.

This follows the submission of your application, and ensures that all interested and affected parties have a fair chance to contribute their views. Cornwall Council consults a variety of stakeholders, including:

Local residents and businesses

Those living or operating near the proposed development site are notified directly and invited to comment.

Parish and town councils

These local councils provide a community perspective on planning applications, often highlighting local concerns and needs.

Statutory consultees

Organisations such as Natural England, the Environment Agency and Historic England are consulted on matters within their remit - ensuring that environmental, heritage, and technical considerations are addressed.

The feedback from these consultations is critical in shaping the final decision on a planning application, we help you to fully consider how your build or renovation will affect the community around you - read our Planning application guide for detailed tips on getting your application approved.

BRING YOUR IDEA TO LIFE TODAY

If you have a dream build in mind, or simply want consultation on Cornwall architecture for a potential renovation, our friendly team would be more than happy to help you. So whether it’s a lifelong ambition that we can help to make a reality, or a modern renovation plan, our team will help shape your application.

CORNWALL PLANNING WITH MARRAUM