What Does a Planning Consultant Do? Understanding the Role of Planning Consultants at Cedar Planning

Introduction to Planning Consultants

Planning consultants play a pivotal role in the planning system, and can offer a range of different services. They can advise, shape, plan, promote and even object to development proposals. Planning consultants can work alongside architects and other qualified specialists, such as highways and ecology consultants.

At Cedar Planning we provide a wide range of planning services from initial site appraisals, through to planning appeals, and all in between. Our team of expert planning consultants is dedicated to providing bespoke solutions tailored to the specific needs of each client. We understand the nuances of planning policies and have a proven knack for overcoming challenges that arise during the planning process.

Key Services Offered by Planning Consultants

Planning consultants at Cedar Planning provide an array of essential services to assist clients in navigating the complexities of land development and urban planning. One of the fundamental services they offer is site appraisals. During a site appraisal, consultants assess the feasibility of a site for development by considering factors such as the location and planning history of the site, the relevant planning policies, any planning constraints and a review of similar planning proposals. A good site appraisal will also set out a bespoke planning strategy for the site which works out the best way to achieve planning permission.

Another critical service is the preparation and submission of planning applications. Planning consultants can prepare all necessary documentation and ensure that applications are comprehensive and comply with local and national planning policies. This includes preparing supporting documentation, such as planning statements and working with local stakeholders, such as the local council and community groups.

Planning consultants can submit and manage your planning application on your behalf. In this case they will submit all of the relevant plans and supporting documents to the Council and act as your agent, ensuring that all correspondence from the Council is sent directly to them.

In instances where planning permission is refused, planning consultants play a vital role in managing planning appeals. Firstly, a good planning consultant will review the scheme and the Council's reasons for refusing your application, and advise if any changes should be made to the scheme. If you want to appeal the Council's decision, a planning consultant will create an Appeal Statement (known as a Statement of Case) setting out why the Council's decision should be overturned.

Planning consultants don't just promote development, they can also craft planning objections on your behalf. If you are concerned that a planning application or proposal could negatively impact on your way of life or business, a planning consultant can ensure that your voice is heard in the planning system. Take a look at one of our other blog posts which sets out some of the main considerations we take into account (Planning Objection Examples).

Once your planning application has been approved, planning consultants can also help you discharge any planning conditions attached to your planning permission. This can ensure that you are free to start your development.

In conclusion, the benefits of hiring a planning consultant are manifold. From saving time and money to securing planning permissions and managing risks, their expertise is indispensable for the successful execution of development projects. Cedar Planning's proven ability to deliver positive outcomes illustrates the tangible advantages of professional planning consultancy.