Prior Approval Applications
Some forms of development benefit from permitted development rights but require a prior approval application before work can begin.
Prior approval allows the local planning authority to assess specific aspects of a proposal, such as transport and highways, design, flood risk, noise or the impact on neighbouring properties. The matters considered depend on the relevant permitted development right.
I provide professional prior approval services, advising on eligibility, preparing and submitting applications, and managing the process through to decision.
Prior Approval Application Services
I prepare and manage prior approval applications for a range of permitted development rights, including:
Larger householder extensions – Single-storey rear extensions under the larger home extension permitted development right.
Agricultural to residential conversions – Prior approval for the conversion of qualifying agricultural buildings to dwellings.
Commercial to residential conversions – Certain changes of use from commercial, retail and other qualifying uses to residential.
Agricultural development – Prior approval for qualifying agricultural buildings and operations.
Other permitted development rights – Advice and applications for other relevant classes under the General Permitted Development Order.
Each permitted development right has its own eligibility criteria, limitations and prior approval requirements.
What's Included in My Prior Approval Service?
My service can include:
Eligibility assessment – Establishing whether the property and proposed development qualify for the relevant permitted development right.
Planning constraints review – Checking relevant designations, restrictions, planning history and limitations.
Prior approval strategy – Identifying the matters the council can consider and the information required.
Application preparation – Completing the application forms and preparing the supporting Planning Statement where appropriate.
Supporting information – Identifying and coordinating drawings, transport assessments, noise reports, flood risk information or other technical documents where required.
Application submission – Submitting the application and responding to validation requirements.
Council liaison – Responding to consultations and negotiating on matters within the scope of prior approval.
Decision and next steps – Reviewing the outcome and advising on any conditions or further requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between prior approval and planning permission?
Prior approval is a procedure associated with specific permitted development rights. It allows the council to assess only the matters specified in the relevant legislation.
A full planning application is determined against the development plan and other material planning considerations.
Prior approval is therefore not a general alternative to planning permission; it is only available where the relevant permitted development right applies.
How long does a prior approval application take?
The determination period varies depending on the permitted development class. Many prior approval applications have a 56-day determination period, although some have different requirements.
The applicable period should be confirmed before submission. Where a decision is not issued within the relevant period, the consequences depend on the particular permitted development right.
Can I convert an agricultural building into a dwelling?
Certain agricultural buildings can be converted to residential use under permitted development rights, subject to eligibility criteria, limitations and prior approval.
Can I extend my house under permitted development?
Some larger single-storey rear extensions can proceed under permitted development rights, subject to specified size, height, location and other restrictions.
These proposals generally require prior approval, including consultation with adjoining neighbours.
Do I need planning permission if prior approval is granted?
Prior approval is part of the permitted development process, rather than a separate grant of full planning permission.
Where the relevant permitted development right applies and its requirements are satisfied, development can proceed subject to the applicable conditions and limitations.
Prior Approval Planning Advice
Whether you are considering a larger home extension, an agricultural building conversion or a commercial-to-residential scheme, I can advise on the relevant permitted development rights and manage the prior approval process.
I provide independent planning consultancy for homeowners, landowners and developers across Essex, London and elsewhere in England.
Contact me to discuss your prior approval application.
Andrew Ransome MRTPI - Email: andrew@andrewransome.co.uk
Prior Approval Successes
Get in Touch
Email: andrew@andrewransome.co.uk
Tel: 020 7096 8045
London Office:
60 Tottenham Court Road
Fitzrovia
London
W1T 2EW
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Content on this website is provided for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute formal planning, professional, or legal advice. Planning policies, legislation, and guidance are subject to change. Site-specific assessment by a qualified consultant is recommended before making development decisions.
Projects highlighted across this website represent professional work undertaken by Andrew Ransome throughout his career.