Turn Your Site into a Successful Development with Planning Permission

Turn Your Site into a Successful Development with Planning Permission

At M P Chartered Architects, we specialise in helping developers progress a project from start to completion, dealing with the planning approval stage and building control stage.

Once the local authority grants planning permission, construction can generally begin only after all pre-commencement conditions set by the local authority have been discharged. This means that, in most cases, you must wait for written confirmation that all planning conditions are satisfied before any building work can lawfully begin.

Our RIBA Chartered Architects combine expert design, practical solutions, and project management to help landowners and developers realise the full potential of their sites. If you’ve already secured planning permission, we can guide your project through the next crucial stages to deliver a smooth, build-ready process.

Expert Architectural Services for Approved Sites.

Already have planning permission?

That’s where we come in.

Our team will review approved plans and improve layouts, materials, and technical details to better match your vision. We can also handle any necessary Variation of Conditions S73 applications, ensuring the correct planning form is completed and submitted to the local authority for approval.

It is important that there is sufficient time to work through the above process and often we need to ensure that all approvals are in place before planning permission 3 year period has run out as discharging planning conditions and any variation of conditions applications take time to prepare for and to work through the planning system.

The benefit of our expert guidance is that we help you navigate complex planning conditions, maximise your site’s value, and ensure compliance with all relevant legislation and the local plan.

Why Developers Choose MP Chartered Architects

Our experience includes residential schemes, mixed-use developments, business and commercial projects, and site redevelopments across Essex and surrounding areas. We are familiar with the planning requirements for houses, houses in multiple occupation, developments and commercial use classes, and can advise on material change of use and when you may need planning permission. Every project follows three core principles:

1. Efficiency – making the most of space, budgets, and planning approvals.
2. Quality – delivering attractive, durable, and well-detailed buildings.
3. Attention to Detail – refining every element for optimal results.

Case Study: Paslow Common Farm, Nine Ashes, Essex

We helped Founthill Developments turn an approved scheme for nine detached, four-bedroom homes in a gated community from a set of planning drawings that came with the site purchase. The project was taken through to the stage where they could actually build the scheme.

We worked through all the information and details needed in order to discharge the precommencement planning conditions, preparing detailed joinery drawings and external works details ourselves and then commissioning and working with other consultants to cover all the information required whether it was to deal with foul and surface water design, contamination issues, landscape and planting schemes etc.; then we went on to modify the designs internally to better meet Founthill Developments expectations and aspirations for the resulting housings and we then applied for a Variation of Conditions application to tweak the design and finally we provided a buildable set of construction drawings and specifications working also with the numerous other outside consultants.

By refining the initial plans and producing detailed construction drawings, we ensured the project was practical, modern, and ready for construction. Our coordination with SAC Structural Engineers, EAS (underground drainage consultants), Moore and Partners ( landscape consultants) and Brontide Consulting Ltd. (mechanical and electrical consultants) ensured a smooth building process.

Case Study: Woodside Farm, Essex

For another Founthill Developments project, Woodside Farm also in Essex, planning permission was again already in place when they bought the site.

We handled the discharge of planning conditions, refined the designs with a variation of conditions application, and prepared detailed construction drawings again coordinating with all the other consultants. The result was nine contemporary homes across five house types, delivered efficiently with a modern, cohesive aesthetic.

From Planning Approval to Build: Your Next Development Starts Here

Whether you’ve just purchased a site with planning permission or are looking to refine an existing approval, MP Chartered Architects can take your project from approved plans to construction-ready designs.

Our expert team ensures your development is practical, visually appealing, and delivered smoothly, maximising the potential of your investment. We can also take on the supporting role as your architects throughout the build with a Design and Build Contract or actually project manage the build if a traditional route is taken with tender process and JCT Contracts. We provide support at every stage, from initial planning to final construction, and can advise on Article 4 directions, which are used by local authorities to restrict permitted development rights in the smallest geographical area necessary – such a direction is often applied to protect the character of a neighbourhood.

We also have contacts with interior designers, bathroom and kitchen companies for you as developers to appoint also and work with.

For general advice on your development planning permission, or to discuss your project and its requirements, contact us today. We recommend you discuss your proposals with the local authority or a planning professional before proceeding to ensure compliance with all relevant planning policies and legislation.

Understanding Permitted Development Rights

Permitted development rights are a set of national rules that allow specific types of building works and changes of use to be carried out without the need to submit a full planning application. These rights are established by the government through the General Permitted Development Order and are designed to streamline the planning process for straightforward projects, such as certain home extensions, loft conversions, or changes within use classes.

However, permitted development rights come with important conditions and limitations. For example, the size, height, and location of an extension may be restricted, and some types of development – such as those in conservation areas or involving listed buildings- may not be permitted at all. It’s essential to check which permitted development rights apply to your property and whether your proposed development is subject to any restrictions. In some cases, you may need to apply for prior approval or seek a lawful development certificate to obtain formal confirmation that your project is permitted. Understanding these rules at the outset can help ensure your development is compliant and avoid costly setbacks.

Planning Permission and Enforcement

If your proposed development does not fall within permitted development rights, or if it exceeds the limitations set out in the permitted development order, you will need to apply for planning permission from your local planning authority.

The authority will assess your application based on a range of factors, including the impact on neighbouring properties, the local environment, and the overall character of the area. If planning permission is refused, you may have the right to appeal the decision.

It’s crucial to secure all necessary permissions before starting any building works, as carrying out development without the required approval can lead to enforcement action. This may include being required to reverse the changes, pay fines, or face other penalties.

Ensuring your project is fully authorised not only protects you from enforcement action but also helps your development progress smoothly through the planning system.

M P Chartered Architects,
Great Bansons,
Bansons Lane,
Ongar, CM5 9AR

01277 364979

info@mparchitects.co.uk