Prior approval is a key part of the permitted development (PD) system. It allows certain building works and changes of use to go ahead without a full planning application – but only where you’ve first secured sign-off from the local authority on specific issues such as transport, flooding, noise, or natural light.
At Plainview Planning, we help you navigate this process.
Common prior approval routes include:
The prior approval route can be quicker (56-day determination) and less complex than a full planning application. But the rules are highly technical – if your scheme doesn’t fully meet PD conditions, your development could be unlawful. You can read more here: A quick guide to planning: the prior approval process.
Our consultants provide:
Getting it right at the outset saves time, cost, and risk.
Contact our team to discuss your project, or explore examples of our prior approval successes here.
Plainview Planning is an independent consultancy that has supported clients across England since 2008. We believe good planning starts with listening, and we take pride in offering clear, supportive advice. From homeowners and landowners to developers, farmers, and businesses, we think strategically to unlock site potential, achieve development goals, and build trusted relationships that last beyond each project.
Below are some of the commercial clients and organisations we work with. You can view all our recent projects or read our latest news and updates.
I have been so impressed at the consistently high standard of work produced during my planning application and appeal process. The Plainview team went above and beyond what was required. A superb outcome, thank you.
Mrs Grimes, Suffolk
I would just like to thank you all for your support and help – I don’t think we would have won this appeal without your inputs
Mr Oppenheimer, Sussex
Seriously, we literally couldn’t have done it without you so on behalf on myself & the Directors of Hunter Vehicles Ltd, THANK YOU.
Hunter Vehicles Ltd, Harlow
Out of all the planning consultancies we approached for assistance, you were the most clued up.
Mr. Stanhope, Staffordshire
Thank you so much for your faultless work in helping us get planning permission. You have been amazing, and we will always recommend you to others.
Mrs Faithful, East Hampshire
Many thanks for all your help with our application! We are very grateful and pleased with all the work you have put in. We will of course approach you again and would happily recommend you to friends and colleagues.
Mr Daulatzai, London
Plainview Planning are a professional team: they listen to what is being asked of them, then discuss and advise the route to take. They communicate in a timely fashion and there was never need for me to contact or chase them.
Mrs Taylor, Hampshire
From start to finish, it was a pleasure working with Plainview Planning. The team are a wealth of knowledge and support, and I would wholeheartedly recommend them. Their breadth of experience is invaluable when navigating planning projects, particularly those involving contentious issues requiring a common‑sense approach. Whatever stage you’re at, they are highly recommended to help bring your ideas to fruition.
Mrs Sadler, Essex
I was recommended to contact Plainview Planning by my architect. I was very pleased with the professional service I received. They were efficient, timely, listened to my feedback and answered my questions. I was delighted with the outcome, and my appeal was successful.
Mrs Thomas, Kent
Thank you very much for your work on our application and it proves it again that it's worth hiring professionals, like you, to do the job.
Mr Sestokas, Essex
Throughout the entire application process everybody involved from the Plainview Planning team provided me with the very highest levels of courtesy, patience and above all professionalism. The positive outcome of this application clearly shows your business formula works. Once again thank you for taking on this application and getting the desired result.
Disdale Gordon, D and G LTD London
We received great initial advice and communication on a planning issue that could have gone either way. Whilst being honest and realistic of our chances, together we agreed a strategy for appealing the decision which eventually resulted in an appeal to the Secretary of State. I am pleased to say that we have now finally achieved approval and could not have done it without their advice and professionalism. We would recommend Plainview Planning without hesitation
Mr& Mrs Boyce, Essex
When I finished reading your statement, I had a smile on my face. You made a complicated argument both simple and compelling - thank you.
Mr A Marler – Hertfordshire
Thank you for all your hard work on our situation. We achieved the best possible outcome thanks to your dedication and work ethic. Your pursuit of a positive outcome, despite what initially appeared to be a very poor prospect, was unwavering. The work and understanding from the beginning was strong and the goal was ultimately achieved We can only say that we would highly recommend Plainview Planning to future clients with the highest regard.
Mr Carlon, London
I would fully recommend McLoughlin Planning Ltd; they handled my application for change of use of my Therapy Centre into residential use. They demonstrated a wealth of experience in the thorough way they prepared my planning application and kept the process moving, whilst keeping me informed at all times. I was delighted that they succeeded in getting my application passed which was by no means an easy task.
Amanda, West Sussex
Just a few brief words to thank you for your much-needed contribution towards our recent planning approval. We had some stiff opposition. Nevertheless, you held us by the hand step by step - and you were proved right. I believe that by having Plainview Planning produce a planning statement, this was fundamental to our success - so well done. Best wishes to all the Plainview team.
Mr Morgan, London
Thank you for making our dream come true! For almost 35 years, my wife and I had been trying to obtain planning permission to build our family home. After numerous refusals, we almost gave up hope but were recommended Plainview Planning. It was an absolute pleasure working with the team, who were professional, knowledgeable and effective throughout the process. I would highly recommend Plainview Planning to anyone who needs expert planning advice and guidance.
Mr Tann, Essex
I didn’t believe the outcome having to read your email and the EFDC platform several times. It didn’t sink in until Monday morning even after cracking open a bottle of champagne with Sunday dinner. So very grateful for all your amazing services professionalism and support. Thank you.
Mr. Seymour, Essex
Plainview, you’re absolute diamonds! Thank you so much, I am so, so grateful for your help. I definitely plan to return when the time comes for another application! Thank you so much again.
Nina, North Cotswolds
Last year there were four applications to Horsham Planning Department. Each one was specific and required attention to detail to secure planning approval. I was very pleased when each application was 'approved' without too much discussion. This was achieved through the dedicated work of your Plainview Planning Experts, and I would like to thank them for their hard work and determination. I would have no hesitation in recommending your company to my friends and family.
Mr Hallworth, Sussex