How we can help
From a first look at a site to a decision from the council, here is where we can help.
- Site appraisal and feasibilityA realistic view of what a site could support, before you commit time or money.Read more
- Pre-application adviceTesting a proposal with the council early, so problems surface while they are still cheap to fix.Read more
- Planning applicationsPreparing, submitting and following through applications until there is a decision.Read more
- Land promotionHelping landowners understand their options and bring land forward through the Local Plan or by application.Read more
- Planning appealsA frank view on a refusal, and support if an appeal is the right next step.Read more
- Change of use and rural buildingsBarns, farm buildings and commercial premises: finding the route that works.Read more
Who we help
Landowners and farmers
Land that might have more potential than its current use suggests, from a paddock on the edge of a village to a larger holding. We help you find out, and decide what to do next.
Small developers and builders
Sites that need a planning view before you buy, or a route through planning once you have. We help you appraise the site, plan the approach and keep the application moving.
Homeowners and property owners
Extensions, outbuildings, conversions, new access or a change of use. Even straightforward projects are easier with someone who knows how the system works.
Tell us about the site
Send the address or a plan, and what you hope to achieve. A short message is enough to start.
We take a first look
We review planning policy, constraints and history for the site and come back with an honest first view. There is no charge for this first conversation.
Agree the next step
If it makes sense to go further, we set out what we would do, who else is needed and what it costs, in writing.
We take it forward
From appraisal through to a decision, we handle the work and keep you informed in plain English.
What to expect
Straight answers
If a site has little chance, you will hear that early. If it is promising, you will hear why, and what stands in the way.
Plain English
Planning is full of jargon. We explain what is happening and what it means for you at each stage.
Clear scope and fees
We agree what we are doing and what it costs in writing before work starts, and we do not promise outcomes that no one can guarantee.
Where we work
Essex is our focus. We also work across most of London.
- Basildon
- Braintree
- Brentwood
- Castle Point
- Chelmsford
- Colchester
- Epping Forest
- Harlow
- Maldon
- Rochford
- Southend-on-Sea
- Tendring
- Thurrock
- Uttlesford
- Most of London
Straight answers
A few of the questions we hear most. If yours is not here, ask.
How do I know if my land could be developed?
There is no single test, but a few things matter most: where the land sits in relation to existing homes and the settlement boundary, how it is designated in the Local Plan (Green Belt, countryside or an allocation), whether it can be safely accessed, and constraints such as flood risk, trees, wildlife or heritage. A site appraisal looks at all of these and gives you a straight view. Start with our guide for landowners.
Can Green Belt land be developed?
Sometimes, but the bar is higher. National policy now recognises ‘grey belt’ land, meaning previously developed land and other Green Belt land that does not strongly contribute to certain Green Belt purposes, and sets specific tests for development there. Whether a particular site qualifies depends on its detail, so it needs checking rather than assuming.
How long does a planning application take?
The statutory targets are 8 weeks for most smaller applications and 13 weeks for major ones (16 weeks where an environmental impact assessment is needed). In practice councils often agree longer, and the work before submission matters just as much. We will give you a realistic view of the timescale for your site.
What should I send you first?
The address or postcode, a sketch or plan of the land if you have one, who owns it, and what you hope to achieve. If there is planning history, previous advice or an offer from a developer, mention that too. A short message is enough to start.