OUr Expertise
Development Plans and Planning Policy
Planning policy can determine whether a site is suitable for development and how a proposal will be assessed. Mercantile Barristers advises landowners, developers, businesses and community interests on the policies affecting land and buildings. We help you interpret the relevant requirements and present your position during applications, consultations and disputes.
Understanding the policy framework
We assess the development plan, national policy and other relevant considerations affecting your site. Our barristers explain how policies interact, what their wording means and which issues require supporting evidence. This can help identify both opportunities for development and constraints that need to be addressed before an application is made.
Making representations on emerging plans
An emerging local or neighbourhood plan may affect a site’s future use or development prospects. We advise on proposed allocations, policy wording and the legal issues raised by the preparation of a plan. Working with your planning team, we can prepare representations and assist with participation in examination proceedings where appropriate.
Applying policy to a proposal
Disagreements often arise over how a policy should be interpreted or applied to the facts of a particular scheme. We advise on the council’s approach, the relevance of competing considerations and the legal arguments supporting your position. We can also assist when policy issues become central to a planning appeal.
Responding to policy disputes
Where a plan or decision is thought to be unlawful, we assess the appropriate challenge procedure and its prospects. Consultation and court deadlines can be strict. Involving counsel early gives you time to identify the issues, obtain evidence and decide whether representations or further proceedings are justified.
Discuss your matter with Mercantile Barristers
Contact our clerking team on 020 3034 0077 or email enquiries@mercantilebarristers.com with a brief outline of your matter and any relevant deadline. We will explain the next steps and proposed fees.
How Our Process Works
Instructing our direct access barristers is the cost effective alternative to the traditional route of engaging a solicitor first. The process is just as straightforward. Here’s how the process works:
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Initial Consultation
In the consultation the barrister will assess your legal position, devise a legal strategy, and give you appropriate advice on the necessary next steps to achieve your objective.
