Understanding the Planning Application Process

Understanding the Planning Application Process

When it comes to property development and renovations, understanding the ins and outs of planning applications in the UK is crucial. It doesn't matter whether you're a property owner in Sevenoaks looking to extend your property or a property developer in Tunbridge Wells planning new builds, following the process will save you in the long run.

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• Pre-Applications by Level Architecture
• Full Architecture Planning Applications by Level Architecture
• Building Control by Level Architecture

Understanding Planning Applications from Extensions to Loft Conversions

A planning application such as an extension idea or a loft conversion is a formal request to your local authority for permission to carry out development. This can include anything from building new homes, changing the use of a building, or even minor alterations to existing structures.

In Kent, the planning application process is governed by strict regulations to ensure that developments are safe, sustainable, and in harmony with the local environment.

Why Are Planning Applications Necessary?

Planning applications serve several critical purposes:

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensures that developments comply with local and national regulations.
• Community Involvement: Provides an opportunity for local residents to voice their opinions about proposed developments.
• Sustainable Development: Helps to assess the environmental impact of new projects.

Types of Planning Applications

In Kent, there are several different types of planning applications you may need to consider:

• Full Planning Applications: This is the most common type, required for most new developments and significant alterations.
• Outline Planning Applications: Used to establish whether a proposed development is acceptable in principle before the detailed plans are finalized.
• Householder Planning Applications: Specifically for homeowners looking to make alterations to their properties, such as extensions or loft conversions.
• Change of Use Applications: Necessary when you want to change the purpose of a building, such as converting a residential property into a commercial space.
• Listed Building Consent: Required for any alterations to buildings that are officially designated as historic.

What is planning permission and do I need it?

Planning permission is the process of a local authority in the UK giving its approval to allow the building of a building or part of a building or make changes to it.

The main reasons for is existence is to make sure that planned developments are lined up with the policies and rules of the local authority.

Often it will consider the impact on neighbouring homes and businesses as well as environmental impacts on the local area. Planning rules are also in place to make sure that any buildings adheres to design and safety standards.

What About Conservation Areas?

There are many conservation areas in Kent, in fact all over the UK. For example there are 25 conservation areas in Tunbridge Wells, 41 in both Sevenoaks and Maidstone and a whopping 97 conservation areas in Canterbury.

• Tunbridge Wells - https://tunbridgewells.gov.uk/planning/conservation-and-heritage/conservations-areas
• Sevenoaks - https://www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/directory/3/conservation_areas
• Maidstone - https://maidstone.gov.uk/home/primary-services/planning-and-building/heritage-and-landscape/conservation-areas
• Canterbury - https://www.canterbury.gov.uk/planning-and-building/conservation-areas

Check these webpages or contact your own local authority if you live outside these areas to find out if any planned build is subject to these additional conservation area rules. It is important to follow the due process.

So What Is The Planning Application Process?

• Contact your Local authority - always contact your local authority to see if you need to apply before starting your application. It may be that your work falls under what is commonly known as permitted development - in which case you might not need permission - but it's best to check.
• Submit your plans - you can submit your plans via the online planning portal for England at https://www.planningportal.co.uk/. There are different portals for Scotland and Northern Ireland.
• Your application is assessed - the team at your local authority will then consider your application as well as give neighbouring homes and business the opportunity to ask questions and object. The feedback comes back through the portal and you may need to make changes.