The planning system is complex with numerous legislative and policy changes over recent years.
The new Planning White Paper, new Environmental regulations and planning reforms, have only added additional pressures and risks for developers.
It is important that you interpret the planning rules correctly, to ensure any proposed developments are viable and deliverable in the new environment. Whether you are a developer, landowner or investor, we can assist you with tailored commercial planning and environmental advice, particularly in London, where our knowledge of practice across the Boroughs helps smooth the planning application process.
We can advise you at all stages of the planning lifecycle, including strategic input at the outset to management of planning applications and appeals. We work closely with our Real Estate and Construction teams to tackle your situation from every angle, providing a comprehensive and robust service.
- strategies for securing a robust planning permission and other consents
- section 106 agreements and community infrastructure levy
- highways and infrastructure
- environmental due diligence and compliance advice
- advice on environmental impact and habitat assessments
- hydrocarbon planning
- compulsory purchase and compensation
- appeals, enforcement, judicial review and statutory challenges
- strategic land advice for institutions, landed estates and other landowners
- planning application process, CIL and planning and infrastructure agreements for housebuilders.
We will work collaboratively with you to get to know your business and your needs. Whether you are in need of clear, accurate advice on the latest planning reforms or guidance on a major project, we are here to support you and your business. If you would like more information on the latest planning updates, click here.
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We deliver legal solutions in an increasingly complex and dynamic market to help our clients achieve their goals.
Read moreMeet the team
Our thinking
Claire Fallows
Claire Fallows writes for Planning Magazine on the proposed changes to permitted development rights to convert Class E to residential
According to government plans, certain properties will be able to convert to residential use without submission of a planning application.
Helen Hutton
How do I amend an existing planning consent?
Reviewing the two main routes to a planning permission's amendment, once it is granted.
Claire Fallows
Claire Fallows quoted by Planning Magazine on the implications of the new permitted development rights for the UK planning system
Claire Fallows quoted by Property Week on the announcement that PDR developments will face minimum space standards
Helen Hutton
Helen Hutton writes for the Estates Gazette Legal Q&A on amending planning permission to meet changing demands
Claire Fallows
Claire Fallows quoted by Property Week on the proposed changes to the UK's planning system
Claire Fallows quoted by Property Week on misconduct and corruption in the UK’s planning system
Lydia O’Hagan
High Court finds that C2 extra care scheme not exempt from affordable housing requirements
The relevant development plan policy - relating to a site - will define whether or not affordable housing is required.
Claire Fallows
Planning Reform: An Overview of the New System: Plans & Guidance
The Proposed New Planning System
Claire Fallows
Planning Reform: Delivering Infrastructure
Good-bye to s106 & CIL?
Claire Fallows
Planning Reform: Local Plan preparation & transitional arrangements
We examine the new process and stages and what they mean for the industry.
Claire Fallows
Planning Reform: Decision making
The Government wants to make the Planning decision making stage faster and more certain, we examine its effects and what it means.
Claire Fallows
Planning Reform: Changes to the current system – consultation open now
The Government wants to make the Planning decision making stage faster and more certain, we examine its effects and what it means.
Claire Fallows
Planning Reform: Final thoughts
We summarise what the Planning Reforms mean for the industry and what's next
Claire Fallows
Planning Reform – The Second Wave
Read our analysis of the long awaited White Paper and what it means for the Planning industry.
Helen Hutton
Q&A: Statues and Ornaments in the Garden of a Listed Building
What options we have when selling a house with statues and other ornaments in the landscaped garden?
Claire Fallows
Further Changes: A Round Up
We summarise additional changes to the planning system.
Lydia O’Hagan
Build Build Build - Extending Working Hours
You can now apply to extend construction hours
Lydia O’Hagan
Community Infrastructure Levy: Deferring a Payment
Claire Fallows
Claire Fallows quoted by Property Week on the supply of senior living units