Planning work is exceptionally multi-facetted. Smaller matters can be tackled single handed or with modest input from others. Larger and more complex projects call for a multi-disciplinary approach with each professional contributing their own expertise without wasteful duplications of effort. I enjoy and take pride in:
- Strategic Analysis of planning potentials
- Finding Innovative Solutions to all manner of problems and opportunities
- Subject to budget constraints, involving and working with other professionals, selected to meet the particular needs of the project and client.
- Coordinating team efforts, arguing alternative viewpoints.
- Exploring strategies and legal interpretations with colleagues in pursuit of optimal outcomes.
This dialectical approach extends to where counsel’s opinion and involvement is needed, rather than just passively seeking enlightenment from on high. The aim is the debate all the issues and optimise team effort so that the ‘whole is greater than the sum of parts’. I cover the full spectrum of planning and development related matters but have particular interests in:
High Quality Design Schemes
I am interested in the sustainability agenda and how it can be harnessed to promote a scheme’s acceptability to local planning authorities, so as to enhance the speed and economy of obtaining permission.
Lawfulness issues
A painstaking and exhaustive approach to tracking, assembling and evaluating evidence is needed before presenting it to the Local Planning Authority (LPA) with an application for a certificate. LPA resistance to acknowledging the truth of what is being stated is common and misinterpretation and misconceptions can derail an application that could have been made successfully if detailed evidence and very clear legal arguments had been submitted. I have an exceptionally high success rate with Lawful Development Certificate applications, having on occasion obtained certificates where previous professionals have failed.
Green Belt Issues
I am particularly interested in schemes for replacement development in the Green Belt and how ‘Very Special Circumstances’ arguments can be utilised in overcoming (frequently) knee-jerk resistance based on the excessively stringent interpretation of Green Belt policies.
Sensitivity Issues
I particularly relish the challenges presented by schemes involving: (i) Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and wider Landscape Issues, (ii) Heritage/Listed Buildings issues, and in identifying and introducing suitably qualified specialists to overcome problems.