How is it different from just using Claude, ChatGPT or Gemini?

Very different. The technical term for this is MCP - which stands for Model Context Protocol. It's a connector, a standardised way of giving an AI tool direct, live access to a specific website or data source.

Think of it like handing Claude a login to Planda Portal. Once connected, Claude isn't guessing or making things up. It's reading your actual applications, your actual documents, and your actual account and responding based on your real data.

What can I do with it?

Once your AI tool is connected to Planda Portal via MCP, you can ask questions and give instructions in plain English.

Here is a video showing you how Alice created a planning application using claude:

Ask questions on the go

"What applications do I have pending validation right now?"
"What's missing from my Camden application?"
"When did I last submit something to Hackney?"

Generate reports and summaries

"Give me a summary of all applications submitted this month, including their current status."
"Which of my applications are still waiting for a decision?"

Create and manage draft applications

"Start a householder application for a single-storey rear extension at 93 Burton Road, Swadlincote DE11 7JW, applicant Pat Smith, pat@example.com. Then give me the link."

Check outstanding requirements

"What documents are still missing on my Redbridge application?"

Because Claude is working from your live Planda Portal data and not general knowledge, the answers are specific to your account and your applications.

What are the limits?

This is currently available for all Planda Portal users. A few things to know:

• Claude can create and edit draft applications and attach documents

• Claude cannot submit or pay for an application — that still happens in the portal itself

• Claude works from your real data, so answers reflect what's actually on your account

We'll update this page as the feature moves toward full release.

How do I get access?

If you're an architect or planning consultant interested in early access and are not sure how to set it up, get in touch with your account manager or email us at [hello@plandaportal.co.uk].

Give it a go!

Here is a tutorial showing you how to connect your Claude or ChatGPT accounts to Planda Portal MCP:

Setting up your connection on Claude

Before you start, you'll need either a paid Claude account or a Claude workspace where you're an admin. Free accounts are limited to one custom connector, so if you've already connected something else you'll need to remove it first.

1. Open the Claude app and click your account icon. Go to Settings, then under the Customise section in the left menu, select Connectors.

2. Click Add in the top right corner of the modal, then select Add custom connector.

3. You'll be prompted to configure the connector:

   • Name: We recommend "Planda Portal"

   • Remote MCP server URL: https://app.plandaportal.co.uk/mcp

   • You can skip the optional OAuth fields and leave them blank.

4. You'll see a screen confirming you're not yet connected to Planda Portal. Click Connect.

5. You'll be prompted to log in to your Planda Portal account. If you're already logged in, you'll be taken straight to the permissions screen — click Allow to grant access.

6. You're connected. Planda Portal will now appear as an active connector and Claude can access your account in any conversation where you enable it.

If you're on the mobile app, you'll need to complete the setup on claude.ai in a browser first. Once connected, it'll be available in the app automatically.

Setting up your connection to Claude on terminal

Step 1 — Add the MCP server

In your terminal, run:

claude mcp add --transport

claude mcp add --transport

claude mcp add --transport

Step 2 — Connect and authenticate in Claude

1. In Claude, run /mcp

2. Select planda portal dev from the list

3. Authenticate when prompted

Once authenticated, you can start talking to Claude about your applications.

Setting up your connection on ChatGPT

You'll need a Plus, Pro, Business, Enterprise, or Education plan as Developer Mode isn't available on free accounts.

1. Go to Settings → Apps and scroll to Advanced settings. Toggle Developer Mode on. The option to add custom connectors won't appear until this is enabled.

2. Once Developer Mode is on, go to Settings → Connectors (or visit chatgpt.com/plugins). Click the + button and select Create to add a custom connector.

3. Paste in the MCP server URL: https://app.plandaportal.co.uk/mcp. You can skip optional OAuth fields and leave them blank.

4. You'll be redirected to log in to your Planda Portal account. If you're already logged in, click Allow to grant access.

5. You're connected. Enable Planda Portal from the Connected apps menu at the start of any conversation.

Setup must be done via chatgpt.com in a browser. Mobile isn't currently supported for custom connectors.

Things to keep in mind

Data and privacy
Planda Portal contains real application data, some of which may be sensitive. Claude and other AI tools operate under their own data processing terms that are separate from ours which apply whenever you connect them to your account. We don't recommend sharing personal data (names, client personal details) with AI tools unless you're comfortable with how that tool handles it. If in doubt, check their privacy policy before connecting.

You stay in control
Connecting via MCP just gives the AI a different way to interact with Planda, it won't take actions without asking you first. It can't submit applications, make payments, or change anything on your behalf without explicit confirmation at each step.

Who this is most useful for
Practices that manage a high volume of applications are likely to get the most out of this. Think bulk status checks, chasing outstanding items across multiple projects, or pulling together application summaries. If you're unsure, contact us and we can discuss teh best way to make this tool useful for you!

Access is opt-in and reversible
You have to actively connect your account, nothing happens automatically. You can disconnect at any time from your account settings, and access is immediately revoked.

No connection = no access
Unless you choose to connect an AI tool, it has no visibility into your Planda account, applications, or data.

For full details, see our Terms and Conditions.