Planning-focused expertise
We work with a practical understanding of planning requirements, site constraints, and what makes a project more likely to progress smoothly.
We provide professional architectural design and planning application services
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We prepare professional planning applications for homeowners, developers and businesses across the UK.
Contact us todayPlanning advice
A planning application is a formal request submitted to the local planning authority for permission to carry out certain types of development or make changes to a property. In the UK, this can include new buildings, extensions, conversions, changes of use, alterations to shopfronts, and residential or commercial developments.
Planning permission helps ensure that proposed developments are appropriate for their surroundings and comply with local planning policies and national planning guidance.
Planning applications help local authorities consider the wider effects of proposed development, including:
Obtaining planning permission provides greater certainty that a proposed development can legally proceed and can help prevent costly issues later in the project. It can also increase the usability, value and long-term potential of a property, depending on the type of development.
For property owners and developers, professional planning advice can help identify potential constraints, develop suitable proposals and navigate the application process more efficiently – from initial concept and feasibility through to planning approval.
Why choose TPES?
We work with a practical understanding of planning requirements, site constraints, and what makes a project more likely to progress smoothly.
Clear, well-considered drawings help communicate design intent and support informed decision-making from concept through to submission.
We keep the process straightforward, providing timely updates and practical guidance so clients always know what is happening and why.
Every project is shaped around your goals, priorities and timescales, with a collaborative approach tailored to your circumstances.
We focus on designs that balance ambition with feasibility, helping to create spaces that are both functional and thoughtful in use.
From initial concept and preparation to submission and ongoing coordination, we help clients navigate each stage with confidence.
Our process
Discuss the project, property and client's requirements to establish the objectives, constraints and the right approach for the planning strategy.
Planning advice
Not sure whether your project requires planning permission? Tell us a little about your proposal.
Planning rules can depend on property-specific circumstances, location, previous permissions, Article 4 directions, permitted development rights, conservation areas and other factors. This tool is intended as a general guide only and is not a legal or planning determination.
Discuss Your ProjectPlanning timescales
In England, councils have a standard statutory time limit to decide planning applications. The countdown begins when the application is officially validated—checked and confirmed as complete—rather than when it is first submitted.
Householder applications such as home extensions, minor developments and lawful development certificates.
Larger proposals, including major commercial developments and substantial residential building projects.
Complex projects that require a formal Environmental Impact Assessment as part of the application.
Delays: In practice, many local authorities take longer than the formal target due to public consultations, staff workloads or requests for design changes.
Extensions: If a council needs more time, they will often ask you to sign a formal extension of time in writing.
Non-determination appeals: If the statutory period passes without a decision and you have not agreed to an extension, you gain the right to appeal to the Secretary of State for non-determination.
What type of project you are planning (e.g., rear extension, new build, loft conversion) Which local council borough you are applying to. I can provide more tailored context on their typical real-world turnaround times
Discuss your project