The Beetle’s | The Continuing Story of Bungalow Bill

Local Planning Authorities across the UK offer a paid Pre-application Advice (PAA) service. However, it does not guarantee that permission will be granted. It can actually be counterproductive.

One client of Pearson Planning, Chartered Surveyors obtained advice in relation to a proposed dwellinghouse, on brownfield land within a settlement on the M8 Corridor. The Client’s Architect was told by Officers that only a single storey dwelling would be acceptable. On submission of a subsequent application for a two storey dwelling, the Planning Officer (The Beetle) slavishly adhered to the PAA disregarding other material considerations and setting aside certain policy provisions: refusing the application.

Aggrieved by this, the client sought specialist advice from Pearson Planning, Chartered Surveyors. A Review of The Beetle’s decision was sought from the Local Review Body (LRB). The LRB did not concur with The Beetle’s decision. Instead it moved to a Further Procedure for written information on various policies etc. On consideration of that evidence, the LRB agreed with Pearson Planning, Chartered Surveyors and granted conditional planning permission for a two storey dwellinghouse.

If you seek Pre-application Advice, spend your money wisely, and choose the provider carefully. talk to pearson planning, chartered surveyors.