Struggling with Planning Permission? Here’s Why a Planning Consultant or Experienced Planning Agent Could Save Your Project

When it comes to property development or making changes to your home or business premises, the process can feel overwhelming. Between complex regulations, local authority requirements, and the potential for objections, navigating the planning system isn’t always straightforward. That’s where a planning consultant or experienced planning agent can make all the difference.

We’re proud to have a 97% planning success rate – an incredible figure considering we don’t cherry-pick only easy projects. Instead, we specialise in tackling complex applications with creative design solutions that turn challenges into approvals.

What is a Planning Consultant?

A planning consultant is a professional who specialises in town and country planning. They understand the policies, regulations, and procedures that govern development, from small home extensions to major commercial projects. Their role is to help you achieve the best outcome while ensuring your project complies with planning law.

At British Home Design, our experienced and qualified team combines planning consultancy with the practical knowledge of experienced planning agents, meaning we not only understand policy but also how to manage every stage of your application effectively.

Why You Might Need One

1. Expert Guidance Through a Complex System

Planning rules can be complicated and vary from one local authority to another. A planning consultant or experienced planning agent can explain what’s possible, what’s not, and how to strengthen your application to avoid unnecessary delays or refusals.

2. Improving the Chances of Approval

With our 97% success rate, we know what it takes to win planning permission. Submitting a well-prepared application backed by a robust planning statement dramatically increases the likelihood of success.

3. Saving Time and Reducing Stress

Dealing with the planning system on your own can be time-consuming and stressful. Our consultants and agents take the burden off your shoulders by managing the process, liaising with the council, and responding to any queries on your behalf.

4. Handling Objections and Appeals

Sometimes neighbours, councillors, or planning officers raise objections. A planning consultant or agent can prepare reasoned arguments to counter these issues or, if necessary, manage an appeal should your application be refused.

5. Maximising the Potential of Your Property

We don’t just aim for approval — we aim for the best possible approval. Through creative design solutions and policy-led strategies, we help you unlock the full potential of your property.

Planning Consultant vs Planning Agent – What’s the Difference?

The terms planning consultant and planning agent are sometimes used interchangeably, but they don’t always mean the same thing.

• Planning Consultant – A qualified professional (often with RTPI membership) who specialises in planning policy, law, and strategy. They provide in-depth advice, prepare detailed planning statements, manage complex applications, and represent you in appeals.

• Planning Agent – A broader term for anyone submitting and managing a planning application on your behalf. This could be an architect, surveyor, or homeowner. However, not all agents have specialist planning knowledge.

  
  

In short: All planning consultants can act as agents, but not all agents are planning consultants. Working with us means you benefit from both — the strategic expertise of consultants and the hands-on support of experienced agents.

The Value of a Planning Statement

One of the most important documents we prepare is a Planning Statement — a structured report that explains how your proposal complies with planning policies.

A strong Planning Statement can:

• Clearly justify your proposal in policy terms

• Address potential concerns before they become reasons for refusal

• Support planning officers in recommending approval

• Strengthen your case against objections

• Reduce the risk of refusal by providing evidence-based arguments

When to Consider Hiring a Planning Consultant or Agent

• You’re planning a significant home extension or remodel

• You want to build on new land or redevelop an existing site

• You’re dealing with a listed building or conservation area

• Your initial application has been refused

• You’re unsure what the local planning policies allow

• You want to strengthen your application with a professional Planning Statement

  
  

Final Thoughts

Hiring a planning consultant isn’t always necessary for straightforward projects, but for anything more complex, the right expertise can save you time, money, and frustration.

With a 97% planning success rate and a reputation for creative, policy-driven solutions, we pride ourselves on helping clients achieve results that others might consider impossible.

👉 Want to find out how we can help with your project? Submit our free enquiry form today and get expert advice from our planning team.