What Is a Planning Consultant, and Do You Need One?

What Is a Planning Consultant, and Do You Need One?

If you’re planning a home extension, new build, or even a commercial development, you’ve probably heard of a planning consultant. But what exactly do they do, and when might you need one?

At Online Drawing, we work with clients across the UK on a wide range of residential and commercial projects. While our architectural design services lay the foundation for your vision, planning consultants can often play a vital role in helping that vision gain approval.

What Is a Planning Consultant?

A planning consultant is a professional who specialises in the rules, regulations, and policies surrounding planning permission in the UK. They help developers, homeowners, businesses, and architects navigate local planning processes and ensure that projects meet the necessary criteria set by local planning authorities.

Think of a planning consultant as your project’s guide through the often complex and technical world of planning legislation. They offer strategic advice, prepare planning applications, and can even represent you at planning appeals if needed.

What Do Planning Consultants Actually Do?

Planning consultants offer a wide range of services, depending on your project’s needs. Some of the key tasks they carry out include:

1. Planning Strategy and Advice

Before you submit a planning application, a consultant can assess whether your proposal is likely to be approved and suggest changes to increase your chances of success.

2. Pre-Application Discussions

They can liaise with the local planning authority on your behalf to gather initial feedback and reduce surprises during the application process.

3. Planning Applications

Planning consultants prepare and submit detailed applications, ensuring all drawings, documents, and statements meet the required standards.

4. Planning Statements

For larger or more complex projects, they write planning statements to justify the development in planning terms, addressing relevant policies and potential objections.

5. Appeals

If your planning application is refused, they can advise on whether it’s worth appealing and handle the appeal process for you.

6. Development Appraisals

For those exploring land or property development, planning consultants can assess what’s possible under current planning policy, helping you understand the viability of a project before committing.

Do You Need a Planning Consultant?

Not every project requires a planning consultant. For simpler home extensions or permitted development works, your architectural designer (like us at Online Drawing) can usually manage the process.

However, you may want to consider hiring a planning consultant if:

• Your project is in a conservation area, Green Belt, or listed building.
• It’s a larger or more unusual development.
• You’ve had planning permission refused in the past.
• You’re unsure how local policies affect your plans.
• You want to challenge a council decision or submit an appeal.

In many of these cases, a consultant’s expertise can be the difference between a smooth approval and months of delays.

How to Find a Good Planning Consultant

Finding the right planning consultant is a key part of the success of your project. Here’s how to go about it:

1. Ask for Recommendations

Your architect (like us!) may already work closely with planning consultants and can recommend someone with a track record of success in your area.

2. Check for Accreditation

Look for consultants who are members of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI). This ensures they meet professional standards and follow a strict code of conduct.

3. Review Their Experience

Ask about similar projects they’ve handled, especially in your local area. Local knowledge can make a big difference when dealing with planning officers.

4. Get a Clear Quote

Make sure you understand what’s included in their fee. Some consultants charge fixed prices, while others bill by the hour.

5. Read Reviews and Case Studies

Check out testimonials, Google reviews, or case studies on their website. A good planning consultant should be able to demonstrate how they’ve helped others achieve planning success.

Final Thoughts

While an architect focuses on the design and technical details of your project, a planning consultant focuses on the permissions that make it possible. They’re two sides of the same coin, and often work hand-in-hand to turn your ideas into reality.

At Online Drawing, we offer architectural design and planning support entirely online, making it easier than ever to start your project from the comfort of your own home. If we think your project could benefit from a planning consultant, we’ll let you know and even help connect you with a trusted expert.