Land & Development
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Development advice services for land and development projects of any scale
However large or small your project, and whether a commercial or residential development opportunity, we will guide you from advising on local planning policy, deciding on the best scheme to maximise the value of your site, through to gaining planning approval, and the final sale of the site.
Identifying strategic development opportunities
Our experienced team helps landowners, developers and investors unlock the full potential of their assets by identifying strategic development opportunities and providing clear, commercially focused advice. We are experts in interpreting local and national planning policy, assessing development potential and undertaking viability appraisals, enabling clients to make informed decisions and maximise value from their land and property interests.
From initial site assessments through to development management, we support projects at every stage of the development process. Working closely with a trusted network of master planners, architects, highway engineers, ecologists, heritage consultants and other specialist advisers, we coordinate the expertise required to overcome complex challenges and successfully progress development opportunities from concept to delivery.
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Residential development
Our residential planning expertise is centred on delivering successful, well-considered new home developments that align with both market demand and planning requirements.
We work with local and national house builders to provide tailored advice on site appraisals, development feasibility and planning strategy, supporting clients from early-stage concept through to completion. From identifying the optimal mix of uses to managing planning applications, appeals, and project teams, we guide you through every stage of the process. Combining technical knowledge with practical experience, we ensure your residential development is carefully planned, effectively managed, and positioned to achieve maximum value.
New builds
Commercial Development
Our commercial property planning services focus on unlocking the full potential of your site, offering strategic insight and expert guidance.
We interpret planning policy to identify development opportunities, carry out detailed viability appraisals, and manage projects to maximise value. Working closely with architects, planners, and other specialist consultants, we provide end-to-end support – from assessing site use and negotiating with planning authorities to overseeing applications, managing project teams, and delivering effective marketing strategies through to final sale. With a strong understanding of risk, return, and market dynamics, we help ensure your commercial development achieves the best possible outcome.
Rural Planning & Development
As experienced Chartered Surveyors, we can identify rural planning and development opportunities to provide additional income streams and maximise the return from your asset.
Whether you are looking to convert an existing farm building or promote land for large scale strategic development, we have the expertise and knowledge to guide you through the planning process.
The promotion of strategic land can be a costly process. We can identify partners who, under a joint venture, promotion or option agreement, will absorb some or all of the associated costs. We can advise on the right partner to promote your land and ensure that the best terms are agreed to maximise the success and return from your property.
Planning
Planning policy representations - Local Plans and LDFs
The Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 introduced the concept of Local Development Frameworks which will eventually replace Local Plans. The Framework document not only sets out how local authorities will meet their housing and job creation needs but also provides a comprehensive set of planning policies and development management rules and procedures for different forms of development.
Each of the various development plan documents is the subject of a series of public consultations leading to a planning enquiry and eventual adoption of the Local Development Framework.
- Monitor national planning policy and its likely impact on Local Development Frameworks e.g. The national planning policy framework
- Monitor the emerging Framework document in your area and advise on the strategic implications for local landowners and suggest potential opportunities
- Submit representations in response to draft Development plan documents
- Give evidence at Local Plan enquiries supported by local and regional market evidence
- Once Local Development Frameworks are in place and adopted, we can monitor annual and five year housing supply figures assessing the potential to bring forward additional windfall or brownfield sites to meet housing need.
- We act for both private and institutional landowners and are working directly with those landowners or indirectly through strategic developers to promote a number of development opportunities, both small and large in the region.
Planning applications
Planning is an increasingly complex area which requires specialist advice and assistance.
The submission of a planning application will have to be accompanied by detailed plans, supporting statements and expert evidence. The design and layout of a scheme needs to maintain a balance between the often conflicting requirements of planning policy and economic viability.
As experts in this field, we can prepare, advise and assist you with the following:
- Site appraisal to ensure your scheme is realistic and viable in planning terms
- Interpretation of planning policies and advice on best routes to follow to obtain consent
- Compilation of Employment Demand Report if appropriate
- Design and layout of the development
- Choice of unit size and mix of uses that maximises the sales value
- Promotion of schemes to the public and other stakeholders
- Notification of other relevant required consents eg. Listed Building Consent
- Negotiation with planning authority regarding Community Infrastructure Levy (Section106 agreements)
- Monitoring and reporting the progress of application
