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Planning Law

Helping you to navigate the complexities of Planning Law

The planning system balances public and private interests. The State represents the public interest by managing construction development and property use. The aim is to ensure that new construction is built in keeping with its surroundings and that property use doesn’t impact too much on the amenities of neighbours.  On the other side of the equation stands the property law framework and the rights of property owners.

We provide a full range of expert services to clients who have a legal matter relating to the planning system, whatever end they’re on.

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    Our Planning Law Expertise

    Expertise

    Negotiating Planning Agreements and Unilateral Undertakings

    Under S106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, these legal documents need in many cases  to be entered into with the Local Planning Authority (LPA) in conjunction with a planning permission. The objective is to reduce the impact of the development where there is a need for new or improved infrastructure/services and if applicable, deliver Affordable Housing provision.

    Advising on infrastructure issues and third party rights

    Development of any area of land can involve a number of issues such as making sure there is access to public roads from the site and/or servicing by various utility undertakers. In addition, before applying for planning permission or starting construction, property owners may need to arrange extinguishing or diverting rights of way that run through their land, remedying contamination or ensuring protection of wildlife/vegetation/ archaeological items.We work closely with our clients to advise on infrastructure issues relating to their property and how to resolve matters involving third-party rights.

    Submitting objections and alternative proposals

    Developments by neighbours or developers   can significantly impact enjoyment of your property.  We help our clients to submit objections to proposed developments early in the planning process, guiding them through the process to give them the best representation possible.

    Planning Enforcement

    If somebody is subject to enforcement action by a Local Planning Authority, we help them to examine the validity of the action, and where appropriate, to challenge the decision through the appeals process.

    Permitted Development Rights

    Not all developments or change of use will require a planning application to be submitted to the LPA. Some benefit from  Permitted Development Rights.   To take advantage of these rights, it’s advisable to seek specialist legal advice to help you navigate the complexities of the process and reduce the risk of mistakes during your application.

    Applying for Lawful Development Certificates

    Where permitted development rights exist or a development gains immunity against planning enforcement through passage of time it’s possible to obtain confirmation of this from the LPA through applying for a Lawful Development Certificate.

    If you’re looking to apply for a Lawful Development Certificate, you’ll need specific evidence to support your application. Our expert legal team can support you through the process and help you collect relevant documentation.

    How to fund a disrepair claim

    Planning Law Team

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What about fees?

    Fee rates are generally well below market levels due to the way the firm operates. Instead of following the traditional partner led fee model, with its multiple tiers of charges dependent on the experience of a lawyer linked with the cost of overheads from leasing office space etc, we can agree a transparent hourly rate from commencement of instructions. That means our clients always know the precise rate they are paying, safe in the knowledge that all of our lawyers are seasoned professionals.

    Why is Planning Law important?

    Planning Law regulates the way construction is carried out with the aim of balancing public and private interests as mentioned above. Having that framework in place  provides a platform to those who might otherwise feel that their concerns are being ignored. That being so, the often competing interests have an improved chance of being reconciled than if the framework weren’t in place.

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