Planning Permission
& Documentation

Navigating the planning regulations can be a daunting task. There are numerous national and local policies to consider as well as endless guidance and case law.

If you own a:

A listed building
A building in a conservation area
A scheduled ancient monument
A property located close to a world heritage site, an SSSI or an archaeological site

There will be additional layers of planning control to contend with.

Any development affecting the historic environment normally requires specialist advice> Whilst it is sometimes possible for people to attempt this themselves, we find that in many cases they have been unsuccessful. Employing Nicholson Price Associates to help you with building consent applications, planning applications and appeals, enforcement notices, works in conservation areas or national parks will give you the best possible chance of a positive outcome.

Building Consent Applications

Having a former Senior Conservation and Planning Officer on our team enables us to provide the best possible advice when it comes to historic buildings. We understand the procedures and protocols within the planning authority. We also have full knowledge of all of the relevant current regulations and guidance, giving us an enviable track record in securing Building Consent (LBC) for our clients. We have excellent working relationships with many planning authorities in Wales and the North West of England and represent our clients at pre-application meetings, planning committee meetings and appeals.

Planning Permission

Planning permission is often required to accompany an LBC application, or under certain circumstances, it can be applied for independently. We advise on when planning permission is required and prepare all of the necessary forms and accompanying documentation.

Documentation

The level of supporting documentation required to make a planning application or application for building consent can be substantial and beyond the ability of many people. In addition to the drawings, plans, heritage statements and planning supporting statements there is often a requirement for a number of reports. These may include an ecology report, environmental assessment report, flood reports, condition surveys and archaeology reports. Much of this information is produced in-house but some of it will come from other specialists. We collate all the information and submit this to the planning authority on your behalf.

Conservation and Maintenance Plans

The key to keeping a historic building in good condition is regular maintenance. It might seem an obvious thing to say but it is surprising how many people bury their heads in the sand and let things slide. Part of the problem is that a lot of people just don’t know what they should be inspecting and how to go about it. We prepare simple schedules that describe how and when an inspection should take place and what you should be looking for. We also provide specifications for basic repairs, materials and where to find them. When given this information you will be able to quickly and easily identify and deal with any issues or contact us with any concerns.

If you own or manage a large historic building or an estate containing numerous buildings then having a five or ten-year maintenance plan really is an essential cost-effective tool to help you maintain and manage your property.