PLANNING CONSULTANCY.
We provide commercially focused planning advice that empowers landowners, promoters, and developers to make informed, confident decisions at every stage of the land lifecycle. Our approach blends strategic insight, technical expertise, and strong market awareness to unlock opportunities, maximise land value, and reduce risk. We offer specialist services, including heritage and sports and leisure schemes, tailored to complex project needs. Working closely with clients, we deliver clear, practical guidance from early feasibility through to delivery, ensuring planning strategies are robust, deliverable, and aligned with commercial goals, helping achieve successful, value-driven outcomes in a constantly evolving planning environment.
Planning Advice
Understanding planning requirements is crucial to a successful project. We provide clear, tailored advice to help clients determine the best approach for obtaining planning permission. Our team assesses site constraints, policy considerations, and potential challenges to offer strategic guidance that maximises your chances of approval.
Pre-Planning
Preparing for a planning application requires careful research and analysis. We conduct feasibility studies, site appraisals, and pre-application consultations to identify potential obstacles early. By engaging with local planning authorities and key stakeholders, we help streamline the application process and improve the likelihood of success.
Appeals & Enforcement
If a planning application is refused or challenged, we provide expert support in preparing appeals and addressing enforcement issues. We analyse the reasons for refusal, develop a strong case, and represent clients through the appeals process, working to overturn decisions where possible.
Conservation & Green/Brown/Grey Belt
Planning within conservation areas and the Green Belt requires a careful, well-informed approach that balances protection with appropriate development. Our team has extensive experience working with local authorities and heritage bodies to ensure proposals respect and enhance historic environments while also meeting Green Belt policy requirements. We prepare detailed conservation statements, manage listed building consent applications, and provide clear guidance on suitable materials and design solutions. We also advise on demonstrating very special circumstances where necessary, helping to navigate policy constraints and achieve successful outcomes.
Heritage
Heritage planning demands a deep understanding of historical significance and regulatory frameworks. We assist with heritage impact assessments, listed building applications, and policy compliance to ensure that development aligns with conservation principles while achieving project goals.
Permitted Development Rights (PDR)
Permitted Development Rights allow certain works to proceed without full planning permission, but understanding the scope and limitations is key. We provide expert advice on PDR eligibility, helping clients make informed decisions about extensions, conversions, and change of use applications.
Planning Conditions
Planning permissions often come with conditions that must be met before, during, or after construction. We help clients discharge planning conditions by preparing the required reports, coordinating with local authorities, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
Site Surveys
Accurate site data is essential for successful planning applications. We coordinate detailed site surveys, including topographical, environmental, and heritage assessments, to provide the necessary technical information for applications and project planning.
Feasibility Studies
Before committing to a project, it’s important to assess its viability. Our feasibility studies evaluate site potential, planning constraints, and regulatory considerations to help clients make informed decisions. By identifying risks and opportunities early, we support efficient and cost-effective project planning.
Sports & Leisure
Every successful sports and leisure project starts with informed decision-making. Libre Solutions offers specialist planning consultancy for sports facilities, from tennis and basketball courts to multi-use recreation areas. We assess site feasibility, determine the optimal court location and orientation, and guide you through local planning policies and permissions. Our approach balances performance and safety requirements with budget considerations, ensuring your project is compliant, practical, and set up for long-term success from day one.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions.
Do I need planning permission for my project?
The need for planning permission depends on the nature and scale of the development. Some projects fall under Permitted Development Rights, while others require full applications. We can assess your project and advise on the best approach.
How long does the planning process take?
Most planning applications take around 8 to 12 weeks for a decision, but timescales can vary depending on local authority workload and project complexity. We work to streamline the process and avoid unnecessary delays.
What happens if my application is refused?
If your application is refused, we can review the reasons, recommend amendments, and prepare a resubmission or appeal to improve your chances of success.
What is the Green Belt planning policy?
The Green Belt is a longstanding planning policy designed to prevent urban sprawl and retain the openness of the countryside.
How does land officially become Grey Belt?
Paragraph 148 of the new Green Belt planning policy states that when it is necessary to release Green Belt land for development, LPAs should consider the following order:
- Previously developed land (PDL)
- Grey Belt land that is not already previously developed
- Other Green Belt locations
Architectural Design
We deliver planning designs that exceed compliance, combining thorough policy awareness with strong commercial focus. Each scheme maximises site value through practical, efficient layouts and visually engaging design, informed by a clear understanding of local planning requirements. The result is a balanced, well-considered, commercially viable solution, strategically aligned to secure approval, attract investment, enhance development potential, and support long-term project success.
Building Regulations
Ensuring compliance with building regulations is essential for any project. Our team provides expert support for new builds, extensions, conversions, and commercial developments, ensuring that designs meet the required safety, energy efficiency, and structural standards. We produce detailed technical drawings and specifications, liaising with local authorities to secure approvals. Whether you’re a homeowner, developer, or contractor, we simplify the process so you can move forward with confidence.
Cladding Rememdiation
We provide specialist cladding rememdiation for both new developments and remediation projects, ensuring compliance with the latest safety and building regulations. Our expertise includes facade remediation, cladding risk assessments, and fire safety compliance, helping clients meet regulatory requirements and secure approvals. Acting as principal designers where required, we work with developers, contractors, and building owners to deliver safe, effective, and compliant cladding solutions.