The process begins with Simon visiting you to discuss ideas and go through key objectives of the proposed scheme with an early focus on timescales for planning and building regulations applications.
We will carry out a measured property survey from which a set of scale drawings can be produced. This begins to provide a real idea of how the scheme might look. More discussions follow, allowing the scheme to gradually develop until such a time when you are happy for us to submit a Planning Application to your Local Authority.
Example scale drawing detail // Image © Simon Bradford Architecture
Consultation with your Local Planning Authority is of course a key part of the design and planning process. It is part of our job to work with them, tailoring designs where necessary, towards satisfying any planning requirements. For some projects, planning permission may not be required and can be confirmed in writing with the submission of a preliminary enquiry form. We will complete and submit the relevant planning application on your behalf together with all supporting material, as well as being your point of contact throughout the statutory planning period.
"The devil's in the detail"
Once planning permission has been obtained from your Local Authority and prior to any work commencing it is also a requirement for most works to obtain Building Regulation Approval. This will require the submission of a formal, full set of plans for a Building Regulation Application made to the Local Authority Building Control.
It is very often the case that other specialist consultants are required at certain stages who we will contact and co-ordinate. For example, a structural engineer may be required to calculate and design structural elements. We are also asked to recommend building contractors who would best suit the size and nature of a particular scheme. Again, we are able to do this and if required arrange for them to show examples of work they have completed in your locality.
