Guidance

Our Guidance page covers different topics in a little more depth, answering some of the most frequently asked questions to aid your research before beginning a building project.

THE 4-YEAR RULE

As of this week (25^th April 2024), a significant shift is taking place in England’s planning enforcement landscape through the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act. The long-standing “4-year rule” is being scrapped, replaced by a stricter 10-year enforcement window. This blog aims to outline these changes and their implications for homeowners, developers or anyone interested in planning regulations.

BIODVERSITY NET GAIN

Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG), has been introduced today through the world-leading Environment Act, to help deliver the government’s commitment to halt species decline by 2030. It means developers in England are now legally required to deliver at least a 10% increase in biodiversity when major building projects are undertaken.

NEW FOREST NATIONAL PARK PLANNING

About 90% of the New Forest is owned by the Crown and about 50% of this falls within the New Forest National Park. Much of this has been managed by Forestry England since 1923. Other parts of the Park are managed by the National Trust, the Parish councils, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and private landowners.

GREEN BELT LAND

Green Belt Land is protected areas of open space which are situated throughout the UK, though most are located within England. Gaining planning permission within a Green Belt area is complex and you will need to seek specialist advice to help you through the process. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions to help guide you.

GREENBELT PLANNING LOOPHOLES

The Green Belt is a tricky arena and it can be quite restrictive on what planning permissions can be achieved when developing green belt land. However with the right approach, more can be accomplished than first expected, if you have experienced Chartered architects and planners who know how to work well with local planning authorities.

ARCHITECT LONDON

London and its surrounding Boroughs have their own unique set of planning laws and a framework set by the London Plan. Here we set out some of the main points to think about when considering engaging architectural designers and planning consultants, for alterations to your home.

HOUSE EXTENSIONS IN LONDON

The increasing uncertainty with house prices and mortgage rates is leading more and more homeowners to improve rather than move. This in turn has led to a steep rise in house extensions, especially in London where house prices and space are at a premium.

NET ZERO ARCHITECT

The construction sector is revolutionising the way that we live, developing more sustainable materials and more environmentally friendly ways to build and insulate our homes. However, it still accounts for nearly 40% of the world’s carbon dioxide emissions, much of which is created by manufacturing building materials, such as steel, glass and cement.

COMPLETE GUIDE TO LISTED BUILDING CONSENT

Listed buildings are an integral part of our built heritage, offering a glimpse into the past and the architectural history of a region.

If you own a Listed building or are thinking about buying one and want to make some renovations or structural changes, it’s essential to navigate the complex process of obtaining planning permission and Listed Building Consent.

This process aims to strike a balance between preserving historical significance and accommodating modern needs. Here, we’ll explore how to obtain permission and what the local planning authority or department looks for in your application.