Planning Permission Advice for Developers

Seeking guidance on planning permission for your development or prospects of success before submitting an application is a necessary and sensible commercial step.

Planning risk directly affects funding, land value and programme certainty.

Mercantile Barristers advises developers and commercial landowners on:

• • Prospects of success under local development plans and the National Planning Policy Framework

• • Interpretation of planning policy and material considerations with specific focus on your project

• • Risk assessment of the viability of your project prior to exchange of contracts

• Conditions likely to be imposed and their financial impact

Common commercial challenges include:

• A site allocated for development subject to unexpected highways objections, or planning conditions
• A scheme facing viability pressure due to affordable housing requirements
• Disputes over density, over development or conservation concerns

We provide structured written advice assessing strengths, weaknesses and risk exposure. Early counsel input can significantly strengthen an application and position a project for appeal if required.

We will regularly consult with developers, project managers and architects at the same time to ensure all the key personnel are on the same page and can have their input before submission

Our Head of Chambers, Samuel Okoronkwo explored the topic of Contentious Planning in one of his regular webinars, found here, if you would like further information.

If you require strategic planning advice for a development project, please complete the enquiry form and one of our clerks will be in touch.