Navigating planning applications can be daunting, but at A9 Architecture, we’re here to simplify the process. Our dedicated team works closely with you to demystify each stage of the application process, ensuring you fully understand the requirements and options available.
Understanding the Planning Application Process
A planning application is a formal request to your local council for permission to carry out a proposed development. This could range from building a new home or extension, to making significant changes to existing structures or a Change of Use. Whether you’re a property developer looking to maximise the potential of your investment, a homeowner eager to transform your living space, or a small business owner aiming to create an inviting environment for your customers, our expert architects and planners are committed to bringing your vision to life. We tailor our services to meet your specific needs, providing comprehensive support ranging from initial consultations and design proposals to submitting applications and navigating local regulations.
Types of Planning Applications
There are several types of planning applications, including:
-Full Planning Application
For new developments or significant alterations, the types of development that require an application for full permission include:
• most non-householder developments
• engineering or other works
• new housing development
• temporary planning permission
• changes of use of buildings or land.
-Householder Planning Application
These cover projects such as:
• Extensions and Conservatories
• Garage and Loft conversions
• Doors and Windows
• Garages, Car Ports and Outbuildings
• Fences, Gates and Garden Walls
• Decking and Balconies
• Satellite dishes
• Solar Panels and Wind Turbines
-Certificate of Lawful Use: Used to Regularise a current use of a property or building. Or to unsure proposed works are legal.
-Outline Planning Application: A Reserved Matters application is the follow-up to an outline planning permission, which grants permission in principle but lacks specific details. The Reserved Matters application fills in those details, covering critical aspects like:
1. Layout: The arrangement of buildings, open spaces, and infrastructure on the site.
2. Access: Details of entry and exit points, as well as the movement of pedestrians and vehicles.
3. Scale: The height, width, and overall size of buildings.
4. Appearance: The visual design, materials, and architectural details.
5. Landscaping: Any green spaces, planting, and environmental features.
Submitting this application within three years of the outline planning permission is crucial, as it allows the planning authority to review and ensure that the project aligns with both the outline conditions and any new regulations or guidelines.
Required Documents and Information
To submit a planning application, you will typically need to provide several key documents. These include detailed architectural design drawings that clearly outline your project, as well as site plans and elevations that illustrate the layout and appearance of the development. Additionally, you may be required to submit any supplementary reports requested by the local council, ensuring that your application meets all necessary criteria for consideration.
Key Steps in Submitting a Planning Application
-Initial Consultation: Discuss your project with us to understand if the project is feasible in principle. With over 2000 projects completed A9 has a wealth of knowledge and experience to draw from when providing initial advice.
-Site Visit and Analysis: A visit to your site allows us to assess its current status and potential for development.
-Design Development: Collaborate with us on developing architectural plans that meet your needs while complying with local planning regulations in Essex, London and the surrounding Boroughs to ensure your proposal aligns with local and national policies.
-Documentation Preparation: We compile all necessary documents, including site plans, elevations, and floor plans.
-Submission: We’ll submit your planning application to ensure all documents are provided that are required for the application to be registered.
-Monitoring and Response: We stay in touch with the local authority, responding to any queries on your behalf.
-Decision and Next Steps: We advise on the next steps, whether approval, refusal, or further adjustments are needed.
Typical Timeline for Processing Applications
Processing times can vary, but it’s not unusual for councils in Essex to take several weeks to review applications. We ensure everything is in place to avoid unnecessary delays. Making a Planning Application and awaiting the outcome can be an exciting but tense time, particularly if the application is for your own personal residential property. A9 Architecture will complete the initial design process for you by submitting your application, ensuring that our expert knowledge in this field allows the application to progress as smoothly as possible.
Potential Outcomes
Approval: Your project can proceed as planned.
Rejection: We’ll help you understand the reasons and explore adjustments.
Conditions: Approval may come with specific conditions to meet.
Tips for Improving Chances of Approval
Ensure your proposal aligns with local planning policies.
Provide comprehensive and accurate documentation.
Be open to feedback and willing to make adjustments if needed.
Common Reasons for Rejection
Non-compliance with local planning regulations
Incomplete or inaccurate documentation
Inadequate consideration of site-specific factors
A9 Architecture's Projects
At A9 Architecture, we take great pride in navigating you through the planning application process with unparalleled expertise. Our reliable team employs best practice methods that adhere to the highest standards, guaranteeing that your project progresses seamlessly from conception to completion. We understand that trust is crucial in any partnership, and our track record of delivering consistent results speaks volumes about our reliability. In addition to our planning application services, we offer a comprehensive range of architectural solutions, including design consultancy, project management, and feasibility studies, all tailored to meet your unique needs.
The intention is to create 6-bedroom 2 storey property with 3 gables and balcony to the front elevation and single-storey rear wrap-around with central courtyard and landscaping on the site.
The proposed design achieves Georgian period architecture to the front & flank elevations of the two-storey element and a contemporary style to the single-storey rear.
The proposed application seeks the approval to create a single storey dwelling within a pitched roof over to the rear of 262 Outwood Common Road. The proposed site would have an area of 462.2m2 which would achieve off road parking of 183.3m2, front amenity space of 45.3m2, a rear amenity space of 113.6m2 and a proposed footprint of 86.8m2.
The dwelling would then achieve an enclosed front amenity space which would provide access to the dwelling front door that is located centrally. The rear amenity space is then located within the north of the site which would also be enclosed by a public footpath and natural woodland.
The front entrance is location of the north elevation centrally within the property. On entering the property an open plan kitchen, dining and social living area is located to the south east section of the dwelling. This would have a set of bi-fold doors located to the north east elevation leading out onto the private amenity space. The dining area and kitchen will be located centrally and to the south east section on the building with combined floor area achieving 30 m2. The family bathroom would achieve disabled standards and be located adjacent the existing kitchen 8 containing all the utility in one area of the proposed dwelling. A corridor to the south elevation of the dwelling will the provided access to the two proposed bedrooms. High level windows will be located to the south elevation providing natural light and ventilation when desired. A double bedrooms will then be located onto the north west elevation of the site achieving a floor area of 15.6 m2 with a windows overlooking the front amenity space. The second bedroom is to be a single with a proposed floor area of 9.1m2.
The surrounding context comprises of two storey dwelling with an approximate ridge height of 8.5 metres. However the site is located at the lowest point within the surrounding context. The proposed ridge height of the dwelling is to be 4.6 metres in height with an eaves height of 2.8 metres.
Outwood Common Road comprises of a variation of material with the prominent being facing brick. In addition to the facing brick, render, cladding and hanging tiles with interlocking roof tiles. The surrounding driveways are made of concrete, tar mac, permeable paving or unbonded materials.
Permission is sought for the removal of the garage block and the erection of three detached bungalows. These would have an overall height of approximately 5.4m and a mixture of brick, render and clay roof tiles as the external materials.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Contact us today to discuss your project and see how A9 Architecture can help you achieve your architectural dreams. Our friendly team is ready to assist you in making the planning application process seamless.
Planning Application FAQs
How long does the process take?
typical application process can take several weeks, but timelines may vary.
What if my application is refused?
We will help you understand the reasons for refusal and work with you to make any necessary adjustments.
Can A9 Architecture handle the entire process?
Yes, from initial consultation to submission and beyond, A9 Architecture is here to manage every aspect of your planning application.
Can I appeal a rejection?
Yes, you can lodge an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate if your application is refused. Our team can provide guidance and support during this process.