Why your local authority matters when extending

What a planning application should consist of:

Once in contact with your local authority, you’ll need to submit a planning application. This should include...

• The standard application form, filled out with the relevant information
• Information specified on an LPA’s local list
• Mandatory national information requirements, such as a design and access statement

However, it’s important to remember that if Resi are your chosen architects we handle a lot of this process for you.

How do LPAs work?

Once you’ve submitted your application, the LPA usually has up to eight weeks to make a decision on householder cases, and up to thirteen weeks for the more major projects, such as business sites or large housing.

Right from the get go, the LPA will publicise the applications they have received, so that those affected have a chance to express their views. They do so through such methods as sending notices to neighbours, or posting in the local newspaper.

Once the assessment of the project has been concluded, the planning officer assigned to the case will approve or reject the application, and the LPA will send a letter notifying the homeowner of its decision.

What the LPA base their decision on:

• The number, size, layout, siting and external appearance of buildings
• Any possible landscaping requirements
• What the development will be used for
• The infrastructure available, for example roads and water supply, and proposed means of access
• Most importantly: the likely impact on the surrounding area

How do I find my LPA?

There are many ways to find your LPA, but we recommend using the search engine on Resi’s website in order to get an accurate result. Another good way would be to go through the online Planning Portal.