Town Planning

Our Approach to Town Planning

We believe that effective town planning is key to shaping sustainable, vibrant, and resilient communities. We work closely with local authorities, developers, and communities to create well-designed places that stand the test of time and meet the evolving needs of society. Our approach is rooted in a deep understanding of the changing planning landscape, with a strong focus on sustainability, environmental responsibility, and community involvement.

Sustainable Communities

We are committed to delivering planning solutions that foster sustainable communities. This means designing places where people want to live, work, and play, with an emphasis on accessibility, affordability, and quality of life. We prioritise the integration of green spaces, energy-efficient infrastructure, and a mix of land uses that reduce dependency on private car journeys and promote active travel. We believe that long-term sustainability requires a holistic approach that balances economic, social, and environmental factors, ensuring that future generations inherit thriving communities.

Navigating Changes to the NPPF

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) provides the overarching policy guidance for planning in England, and we are adept at navigating its complexities. Recent changes to the NPPF, particularly those affecting housing delivery, design quality, and environmental considerations, have reshaped how planning decisions are made. We stay abreast of these updates to ensure our clients are well-positioned to comply with current policy and make the most of emerging opportunities. Our team can offer expert advice on how best to align proposals with the latest NPPF guidelines, ensuring that development is sustainable, deliverable, and supported by the local community.

Paragraph 80 and Rural Development

A key element of the NPPF is Paragraph 80, which addresses rural housing development. This policy encourages new homes to be developed in rural areas under certain circumstances, promoting sustainable growth in the countryside. We have extensive experience in interpreting and applying Paragraph 80, helping clients bring forward well-considered proposals for rural development that respect local character and enhance the surrounding environment. Whether it’s for a single dwelling or a larger scale project, we understand how to meet the criteria of Paragraph 80 and deliver thoughtful, context-sensitive solutions.

Neighbourhood Plans

Neighbourhood Plans are a powerful tool for communities to shape the development of their local areas. We work alongside Parish Councils and local stakeholders to help create robust, evidence-based Neighbourhood Plans that reflect the unique characteristics and aspirations of each community. Our expertise ensures that the plans align with local policies and national guidance, empowering communities to influence the future growth and development of their areas. Through careful consultation, we aim to strike the right balance between community aspirations and deliverable development.

Regeneration and Urban Renewal

Our experience extends to regeneration and urban renewal projects, where we work to breathe new life into underused or derelict areas. Regeneration is not just about physical transformation—it’s about creating opportunities for local communities, enhancing the environment, and delivering sustainable growth. We assist clients in navigating complex urban planning challenges, from securing funding and permissions to engaging with local communities and managing regeneration projects from conception to completion. Our approach ensures that regeneration projects provide long-lasting social, economic, and environmental benefits.

Environmental Considerations

Environmental sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. From reducing carbon footprints to enhancing biodiversity, we integrate environmental considerations into all aspects of our planning work. Whether it's incorporating green infrastructure, ensuring climate resilience, or minimising the environmental impact of new developments, we make sure that every project is underpinned by sound environmental principles. We also help our clients navigate environmental impact assessments and comply with the latest regulations on sustainability and climate change, ensuring their developments contribute positively to the environment.

RTPI Expertise and Professionalism

As members of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), we adhere to the highest professional standards and follow best practices in all our planning and design work. Our team is committed to delivering planning solutions that are not only innovative and practical but also ethically sound and aligned with the public interest. We believe in transparent, collaborative processes that build trust with stakeholders and respect local needs and aspirations.

Planning Applications and Appeals

The planning application process can be complex and time-consuming, but with our expertise, we simplify the process for our clients. From pre-application advice and application submission to navigating planning appeals, we offer comprehensive support to ensure the success of your project. Whether you're seeking full planning permission, outline consent, or a change of use, we provide strategic advice and work closely with planning officers to maximise the chances of a successful outcome. In instances where applications are refused, we have extensive experience in handling planning appeals and have a strong track record in securing positive decisions at appeal.

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We are passionate about making a meaningful contribution to the development of well-planned, sustainable communities. Whether you're involved in large-scale regeneration, rural development, or community-led planning initiatives, we provide the expertise and support you need to navigate the planning process successfully.

[Contact us] today to learn more about how we can help shape your project.

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