Whether you are building an entirely new property or are extending your home, a planning application is needed. This process can be time-consuming, taking up to eight weeks. As such, it takes up a considerable amount of time in concerns to the build.

To better understand the planning application process, the decisions made during each stage and the amount of work required, what follows is a general list of the stages undertaken during the planning process:

– Submission of planning application. This is the actual submission of the forms necessary to validate the procedure. The application is checked to ensure that it has been completed properly and that all necessary fees have been submitted. Once done, the actual processing of the forms will start.

– Consultation. All necessary bodies are consulted in regards to the application. This lasts for 28 days and includes the local council, as well as consultants from all relevant authorities from those dealing with landscaping to those working for the environment agency. Expert views are gathered on the application itself during this stage.

– Consideration. The case officer visits and inspects the site, project drawings, any comments made on the designs, national and regional planning policies, impact on neighbouring properties, parking issues and various other issues to make an on-site assessment. Photographs may also be taken to gather relevant information. If there are any significant problems which can be addressed via alteration of the proposal, the case officer will inform the applicant.

– Recommendation from Case Officer. At the base level, the case officer writes a report which either accepts or rejects the application. If accepted, the application moves to the final decision stage.

– The decision. The actual decision is made pertaining to whether or not the work can go ahead. The appropriate committee convenes in some cases, though householder applications are generally accepted or rejected by a senior planning officer. If a committee is required, the case officer presents the case to the committee who will debate the application. If less than six objections are made, the application is approved. If more than six objections are made, the application is refused. However, in this case, the applicant can lodge an appeal to the Planning Inspectorate.

This process is one of the longest during a building or renovation project. You can be assured that we will help guide you through every stage of the process. As part of our architectural services in Hampshire, we will ensure that the process is completed with minimal hassle for you and with minimal time wasted.