Understanding Planning
From validation to decision, here's what happens after you submit your application and how Planda Portal helps you navigate each stage with confidence.
What is planning permission?
Planning permission is the formal approval from your local planning authority that allows a proposed change to land or buildings. Whether that’s a home extension, a new development or a change of use - to go ahead lawfully.
Understanding Development Plans:
A Development Plan is the local authority’s official blueprint for land use and development. When you apply for planning permission, your proposals are checked against this plan - including building size, use, siting, layout, access and impact - to see if they comply with local policies and guidance.
A local plan is the key document produced by your local planning authority that sets out planning policies and land allocations for the area, identifying where new homes, businesses and infrastructure can go, while protecting important green spaces and heritage. It is prepared with public consultation, independently examined, and once adopted becomes the main basis for determining planning applications.
Read the Government’s planning guide
Do I need an architect?
Once you know your project requires planning permission, the next step is preparing drawings, site plans and supporting documents that meet design, technical and planning standards.
A registered architect can guide the process, ensure work is professionally prepared, and help you meet the requirements for a successful application.
Search the register and
Architects can help with:
How long does it take?
From validation to decision, here's what happens after you submit your application, and how Planda Portal helps you navigate each stage with confidence.
