An independent perspective

If you take time to read any Local Council's Planning Department pages they will almost always include the phrase: 

​"Before proceeding further you should seek advice from a council planning officer..."

They will tell you that this will ensure that you:
  • could avoid costly mistakes* and save time
  • can understand council policy and specialist areas that apply to your development
  • identify potential problems early on and find solutions
  • get advice about how to improve your scheme

So why not take advice from the planning department? Well; all councils have a conflicting interest in the outcome of any discussion that you have with them!  They serve the wider public interest - put bluntly - that may not be in your interest! 

In every case our strongest recommendation is NOT to approach your Council first - but to take advice from a independent expert (like us - or someone equally well qualified - even if it is not us!)

Approaching the local planning authority may well be a costly mistake in the long run (*).

Fees:
​Councils now (almost exclusively) charge for 'pre-planning advice' (although, to be fair, so do planning consultants) - but the Planning Officer you speak with will be forced to guide you according to council policy and will give no leeway or alternative advice as to how to resolve indiscretions or other issues that may be exposed.  In short, by discussing your application plans too early - you could open yourself up to a host of problems which may well be resolved through an 'alternative' independent strategy.

Importantly, despite charging a fee for the pre-planning advise 'service', Councils are not bound by the advice they give!

At Bondstones, we approach every client and project with a fresh, impartial and unbiased position.  Granted our advice will not be the same as that which the council give (always with good reason) - but of that advice is instrumental to your long-term success - so be it!

Before you make contact with our team, please rest assured that we have access to the same systems (in fact more so), the same planning policies and technical information, in addition we have a far more proactive and commercial approach to planning than any council officer will ever be able to offer...

​In short - before you approach the council - speak with us!

​GET IN TOUCH TODAY

Bondstones' specialist planning team are more than happy to take your call and provide impartial advice on any pressing or up-coming matters.  Alternatively please contact us and we will get in touch with you at a convenient time.

Call the planning team today:
0845 544 1990

Key Contacts:
Ian Firth - 0781 321 4535
Oliver Arthey - 07793 545 325
At Bondstones we specialise in 'change of use' architectural design and various rural planning matters.  This may include involvement in activities such as:
  • Farm diversification (changing use to serve other more beneficial purposes)
  • Environmental Improvement / Mitigation
  • New Agricultural & Rural Industrial buildings
  • Conversions & New Build
  • Agricultural Dwellings & Houses for 'Essential Workers'
  • 'Temporary use' applications
  • Agricultural & Rural Business support
  • Equestrian, Sporting and Leisure Projects
  • Provision of ancillary accommodation for family or staff
We also advise on resolving unlawful development, planning enforcement and a wide variety of contentious matters.  

Most importantly - We love a challenge!