Effective pre-application engagement should lead to quality development that meets the needs of the community and leads to planning permission being granted more quickly. This is generally accepted by developers and the council, both of whom stand to gain when this discussion works well.
So why is it that too often developers feel that in practice the benefits aren't worth their time? Why do councils struggle to find the resources to make their pre-application offer business-like and valuable?
The materials below have been developed with the development sector, statutory consultees and leading councils. We hope that by using these tools it won't be long before developers in your area wouldn't dream of applying for permission without seeking your advice.