Make sure your project gets the best start in life with our expert tips of achieving planning success…
Pre-Application
Don’t be afraid to start talking to your local authority sooner rather than later. Councils offer pre-application advice, letting you talk to them about your proposed project and to get an understanding of what you can or can’t do with your property. Taking advantage of this early conversation is crucial if you want to save yourself some time and money in the future. By knowing the boundaries, you can get your design on the right track from the start and save you paying for revisions later.
Talk to your neighbours
Whether you like your neighbours or not, they can either help or hinder your project. Starting off, it’s always good to chat with those in your area about your plans. Not only does this give them a heads up - no one likes hearing things second hand through a letter - but it also allows you to pick their brains. Maybe someone else has built something similar? This will be a great indication of what the council is willing to approve for planning. Your neighbours may even be nice enough to share their thoughts on professionals they used and give budget advice.