OUr Expertise
Residential Planning
Whether you are extending a home, converting a building or developing a residential site, planning issues can affect the viability and timing of your project. Mercantile Barristers advises homeowners, landowners and developers on residential planning, helping you understand the requirements and address difficulties from the application stage through to appeal or enforcement.
Planning your residential project
We advise on proposals for new homes, extensions, conversions and changes of use. Our barristers can assess the legal implications of the site’s planning history, relevant policies and existing conditions. We also advise on permitted development questions and when a lawful development certificate may help clarify the position before works begin.
Addressing objections and conditions
Residential proposals may raise concerns about neighbouring amenity, design, access or the effect on the surrounding area. We work with your planning team to assess these issues and prepare legal submissions. Where conditions or planning obligations affect the scheme, we advise on their meaning, scope and implications for delivering the project.
Refusals and delayed decisions
If your application is refused, conditions are disputed or the council has not issued a decision, we can assess the available options. Our advice addresses whether an appeal or revised application is appropriate, the evidence required and the risks of proceeding. We prepare appeal submissions and provide representation at hearings and inquiries where needed.
Resolving issues as work progresses
Planning problems can also arise after permission has been granted or works have started. We advise on compliance with permissions and conditions, proposed changes and threatened enforcement action. Our focus is on explaining the legal position clearly so you can make decisions about the next stage of your development.
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.
