Our services
Prior approval applications
Some permitted development needs the council's prior approval before you build. The best known is the larger single storey rear extension, where the council consults your neighbours. We check that your scheme qualifies, prepare the drawings and submit the notification.
Prior approval is quicker and narrower than a planning application. The council can only look at the specific matters the regulations set out, such as the impact on neighbouring amenity for a larger rear extension. That makes it a good route for a straightforward extension, but only if the proposal fully meets the permitted development limits. If it does not, the council has to refuse it.
We measure the house, check the limits and conditions that apply, and draw the extension so it stays within them. If your property has lost its permitted development rights, for example through a condition on the original permission or an Article 4 direction, we will tell you before you spend money on the wrong application.
Typical projects
- Larger single storey rear extensions to houses
- Additional storeys on houses and other buildings
- Change of use from commercial, business and service use to residential
- Agricultural buildings to dwellings
What's included
- ✓
Eligibility check: We confirm the property has permitted development rights and that the scheme falls within the limits.
- ✓
Drawings: Existing and proposed plans and elevations, a site plan and a location plan.
- ✓
Notification and forms: The prior approval application with the details of adjoining neighbours that the council needs.
- ✓
Council liaison: We follow the application through the neighbour consultation period to the decision.
- Householder drawings plus the planning application
- Prior approval applications
- Certificates of lawfulness
Fixed fee agreed before we start. Council application fees are paid separately. New dwellings, conversions, appeals and consultancy are quoted per project.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
How long does prior approval take for a larger home extension?
The council has 42 days to make a decision. If it does not decide in that time, the development may be able to go ahead, but we would always advise confirming the position in writing first.
Can neighbours object?
Yes. The council notifies adjoining neighbours, and if anyone objects it assesses the impact on their amenity. A careful design that limits overshadowing and overlooking is the best way to avoid a refusal.
Is prior approval cheaper than full planning permission?
Council fees for prior approval are usually lower, and the decision period is shorter. Our homeowner packages start from £600.
Where we work
Local planning guides
How the councils we work with most handle applications, with their key policies and our projects there.
Extension and conversion projects by type
Other services
Ready to get started?
Tell us about your project for a free, no obligation quote.