Planning application advice for residents
Find out what planning application advice our Planning Team can give residents.
About our Planning Team
Our experienced Planning Team can give professional advice on your application with us before you make your submission.
Pre-application advice usually results in the submission of high-quality applications which progress through the planning process more smoothly, leading to quicker decisions and therefore saving you time and money.
Pre-application advice can also help identify any significant constraints and whether/how these can be resolved. If you are planning a non-traditional design or build, or your property is in or near a Conservation Area, early expert advice can be especially important.
We'll offer informal comments on your project without prejudice.
The pre-application service is subject to a fee proportionate to the development proposed and the level of service offered.
What we can advise on
Alterations to your house or flat
This includes:
- single or 2 storey extensions
- loft conversions and extensions
- porches
- new and replacement windows - including double glazing
- walls and fences
- garages and outbuildings
- driveways and vehicle crossovers
- solar panels
Read more about our household pre-application advice service.
Smaller new residential or commercial developments, or changes to commercial premises
This includes:
- residential developments of less than 10 units
- changes of use including houses of multiple occupation (HMOs)
- prior approval changes of use
- air conditioning and ventilation systems
Read more about our minor scheme pre-application advice service.
Alterations which only need listed building consent
This includes:
- changing roof materials and replacing windows, doors, railings or other features
- alterations to internal layout, including removal or addition of walls
- painting or other types of cladding over stone, flint or brickwork or tiling of steps
- replacing or altering a shop front
- structural repairs or other repairs not carried out in matching materials
- fitting domestic flues or new external pipework
Read more about our listed building pre-application advice service.
Find out more about planning applications.
If you are ready to submit your application, then you can find our planning application forms and checklist in the planning section of our website.