National Planning Policy
We are involved in national planning policy debates, inter alia on account of our work for the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Shelter, the Chartered Institute of Housing, the National Housing Federation and the Royal Town Planning Institute. This has included written and oral evidence to several House of Commons Select Committees. Local Development Framework
We have submitted representations on a wide range of Local Development Documents. We seek to ensure that individual sites are identified for development at an early stage in the plan formulation process. We have appeared at numerous Examinations and made a significant impact on the content of adopted Plans. Area Land Studies
We undertake searches for land with long term development potential within existing or assumed planning policy parameters. The studies can concentrate on particular growth areas, for example along transportation corridors. Site Searches
We undertake specific site searches to satisfy defined requirements. This can cover any potential land use within any given geographical area. Development Appraisals
Development appraisals at the outset can avoid wasted time, effort and money at a later date. They set out if, when and what planning permission is likely to be achieved on a particular site. The level of detail can be tailored to the client's requirements. From this starting point a strategy can be devised in the context of known constraints. Planning Applications
Obtaining planning permission is a complex business. It is, for example, important to ensure that the development applied for is both correctly defined and capable of implementation. Often a supporting statement can provide a helpful explanation. Listed Building/Conservation Area applications may also be involved. We can advise on all relevant aspects. Planning Conditions/S106 Agreements
Developers are increasingly being expected to contribute towards infrastructure and community facilities, which to a varying degree are related to the development proposed, via the mechanisms of planning conditions and S106 agreements. These need careful consideration and negotiation at all stages. We have experience in dealing with most aspects, often in conjunction with specialist Planning Solicitors and/or Counsel. Housing
We have developed an unrivalled reputation at the interface of planning and housing. Our experience encompasses preparation of Supplementary Planning Documents, expert evidence, housing demand and needs analysis, housing strategies, and housing land supply calculation. We specialise in affordable housing issues. Care
We have extensive experience and expertise in the care sector, encompassing permission for developments for the elderly and others requiring special support. We are at the cutting edge of best practice in the development of continuing care retirement communities (CCRC). Project Management
Frequently the role of the Planning Consultant is to lead the professional team. This is especially important for major inquiries and presentations. We are used to working within a multi-disciplinary framework and co-ordinating groups of specialist professionals towards a common goal. Planning Appeals
Appeals remain an essential part of the planning system. We have been successful in a wide range of appeals through both public inquiries/informal hearings and written representations on behalf of both local authorities and developers. We also advise on appeals against enforcement action. We put a premium on the detailed research, careful preparation and clear presentation of the planning arguments of the case, all of which enhance the chances of a successful outcome. Community Engagement
The quality and manner of the presentation of proposals is crucial. Public engagement is increasingly important and needs to be carefully handled. It is often desirable to organise meetings or exhibitions, to communicate with politicians and amenity/community groups and to prepare additional illustrative material in the form of models, perspectives or brochures. Equally a dialogue needs to be established with planning officers and statutory consultees from an early stage. We can co-ordinate all these aspects and prepare Statements of Community Involvement. Urban Design/Master Plans
We have specialist urban design expertise and have prepared innovative master plans for both greenfield and brownfield sites, which accord with both 'urban village' and 'sustainability' principles. Development/Design Briefs
We have prepared Planning Briefs on behalf of local authorities, landowners and developers. In this context we have co-ordinated consortia of up to five developers. The successful negotiation of Briefs has enabled the commencement of projects ahead of schedule. Advertisements
We have unrivalled expertise in the field of advertisement control. We have represented the UK's leading outdoor advertising contractors as well as businesses who have encountered difficulties with their signage. We can assist with the submission of applications, appeals and enforcement matters. Retail/Commercial
We have extensive experience of promoting food and non-food retail proposals in a variety of locations and in dealing with changes of use to professional and financial services; public houses; restaurants and takeaways; offices; taxi businesses; motor vehicle outlets et cetera. We have promoted major industrial, warehousing and business parks, including hi-tech office campuses set in high quality landscaping. Leisure and Tourism
We have been involved in a range of leisure and tourism related projects, including: golf courses; equestrian uses; marinas; hotels and other types of holiday accommodation; and the assessment of the tourism potential of particular towns and areas. Regeneration
We have experience of the social, economic and physical regeneration of key sites and areas within major cities and across rural areas. These projects have incorporated both commercial and residential development; and have included Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings. New Settlements
We have been involved in a range of new settlement schemes, including proposals of regional significance, new villages and new satellites to existing settlements. Environmental Assessments/Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)
We are experienced in the scoping of and co-ordination of environmental assessments/SEA, to ensure that they are presented in a clear and comprehensive manner, as well as in making the appropriate specialist planning inputs. Projects in which we have been involved have covered inter alia urban projects, tourism, waste incineration, energy and aviation. Increasingly we are involved in both 'environmental capacity' and wider 'sustainability' assessments incorporating a full range of economic, social, locational, physical and environmental indicators.
24/01/2011
|
