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Planning Applications
Our experienced planning consultants provide expert advice and hands‑on support for all types of planning applications. From initial feasibility and strategy to preparing and submitting robust applications, we work with developers, commercial operators and homeowners to achieve planning permission.
Planning Applications – Expert Guidance from Start to Finish
Our experienced and personable planning consultants have been helping developers, commercial operators, and homeowners across England navigate the complex and ever-changing planning system with confidence.
Preparing considered, effective planning applications is at the heart of what we do, but our support goes far beyond the paperwork.
We guide you through every stage of the process:
- Understanding your project aspirations;
- Identifying the most effective planning strategy;
- Engaging in public consultation and pre-application discussions;
- Preparing and submitting robust applications;
- Negotiating with case officers and key stakeholders.
Which Type of Planning Application Is Right for Me?
It depends on what you want to achieve – but the right planning strategy is key to success.
That’s why every project starts with an initial development appraisal. Within hours of research, we can advise you on:
- Site potential and constraints;
- Planning history and context;
- Relevant local and national planning policies;
- Applicable legislation, case law, and an understanding of comparable examples.
Example:
You want to build a single home on a plot of land. We will assess if the site has development potential and help you to decide on the best route, be it:
- Pre-application advice;
- Outline or full planning application;
- Or if another application route might work such as Permission in Principle (PiP) etc.
Our role is to help you navigate your options and put in place an informed, strategic approach that gives your application the best possible chance of success.
Our Approach to Planning Applications
We have experience in all application types, including:
- Change of Use
- Certificate of Lawfulness (CLEUD & CLOPUD)
- Prior Approval
- Retrospective Applications
- Outline Planning
- Full Planning
- PiP
While each application type is different, our proven process remains the same:
1. Fact Finding
We get to know your project goals and timeline, explore site context and designations, review planning policy, and use bespoke mapping/data analysis to identify opportunities and constraints.
2. Strategy Setting
Every site and project is unique. We tailor a planning strategy specific to your aims.
3. Building the Team
We work with your chosen consultants or draw from our trusted network of third-party consultants, including: architects, ecologists, landscape designers, arboriculturists, heritage experts and others – to coordinate all required reports for a timely, robust submission.
4. Communication
From public consultation to planning committee, we handle engagement, write persuasive planning arguments, and present the case in the strongest possible light.
5. Application Preparation
We create meticulous, well-researched submissions that anticipate potential issues and present a compelling case.
6. Submission & Negotiation
We stay in close contact with the planning authority, managing timescales and resolving issues as they arise.
7. Decision & Next Steps
If approved, we guide you through commencement and planning conditions. If refused, we advise on amendments or an appeal.
Sectors We Work In
- Residential – from self-builds to new housing developments of up to 10 units;
- Commercial – offices, industrial units, retail, leisure;
- Specialist – education, student housing, care homes, retirement living;
- Householder – annexes, HMOs, small redevelopments.
Why Choose Us?
- Nearly 20 years of expertise – helping homeowners, landowners, and businesses unlock the full potential of their sites;
- Strategic and evidence-based – we build robust planning cases tailored to your goals, increasing the likelihood of success;
- Collaborative approach – working seamlessly with our trusted network of architects, surveyors, and consultants to deliver the right solution;
- Proven results – a strong track record in gaining planning approvals for householder projects, small rural schemes, new homes and self-build developments to bespoke commercial projects.
Your success is our success. Let’s work together to bring your project to life.
A team you can trust
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.
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Key Projects
Some of our clients
