Understanding the Planning Application Process

Project Assessment

We evaluate your project’s scope, considering factors like design, feasibility, and impact on the property and surroundings.

Planning Regulations

We help to understand and interpret local planning regulations to determine if your project requires planning permission or falls under permitted development rights.

Design and Drawings

Our team of architects creates precise design illustrations that match your vision and adhere to all regulations.

Application Submission

We prepare and submit a comprehensive planning application to the local authority, including all necessary documentation and drawings.

Consultation Period

The local authority reviews the application, and there may be a consultation period for neighbours and stakeholders to provide feedback.

Decision

The local authority will decide on your application, either granting approval or requesting modifications.

Approval and Execution

If approved, you can proceed with your project. If modifications are needed, we will work closely with you to address them.

With our expert guidance at xLine Architecture, you can ensure a smooth journey from concept to completion. Our expertise can help you navigate regulations, prepare documentation, and create a successful application for your project.

Prior Approval

National regulations automatically grant clearance for some sorts of construction projects; this is known as “permitted development.” But, to qualify for this, each type of project has its own rules and conditions outlined in the law.

Now, occasionally, even for these projects that have already received pre approval, you must consult the local planning authority. This is referred to as “Prior Approval.” It’s like giving them a heads-up and saying, “Hey, we’re doing this. Is that cool?” This way, they may review your plans, consider any impacts on traffic, and ensure everything is in order before you move further. It’s an additional measure to ensure a flawless outcome!

Although there are many basic aspects and a general similarity in the procedure, each single approved development right will have unique requirements for the prior permission application. Here are a couple of scenarios:

Home Extensions: Obtain approval before beginning any construction if you intend to create a larger single-story addition at the back or even rise higher. It’s similar to making sure your fancy new ideas won’t cause any problems by consulting the planning authority.

Creating Dwellings: You can occasionally add stories to already-existing buildings or convert non-residential spaces into dwellings. However, you must first verify with the planning department before taking that action. It’s merely to ensure that everything complies with the regulations.

Conversion of houses to other uses: The following uses can be converted to homes within the specified bounds, however doing so requires submitting an application for prior approval. Permission for related work may be needed, while some may fall under each individual right depending on the particular modification.

1. Shops or Offices (Use Class E): You can switch these to homes or even a mix of homes and flats. But, before you start packing, you’ve got to check with the planning folks. It’s just to make sure your cool new living space won’t cause any issues.

2. Agricultural Buildings: If you have a barn or something similar, you can turn it into up to 5 homes. Cool, right? But, before you start picking out curtains, you need to get the planning authority’s approval.

3. Unusual Places (Sui Generis): Places like casinos or takeaways can also become homes. But, again, you’ve got to check with the planning folks first. They want to make sure everything’s good to go.

It’s like asking permission to make sure your plans match the rules and won’t cause any trouble down the line!