In the ever-evolving landscape of urban development and construction, navigating the intricacies of planning permissions can be a daunting task. To shed light on this process, I recently sat down with Alex, an experienced project manager based in the East Riding of Yorkshire, who shared his insights on obtaining non-householder and commercial planning advice. Our conversation was particularly focused on the recent developments in construction site hours and the amendments proposed by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council.
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Understanding the Basics
“When you’re dealing with any form of construction or demolition,” Alex began, “the first step is usually submitting a ‘Full plans’ application. This isn’t just for homeowners looking to make extensive changes to their property; it’s the same for commercial projects too.”
Alex explained that the application process requires a detailed submission, including various documents to ensure compliance with local regulations. “You’ll need to check the Validation Checklist to make sure you have everything in order. This checklist is crucial because missing out on any required information can delay your application significantly.”
The Importance of Design Codes
One of the key topics we discussed was the forthcoming Design Code being developed by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council. Alex highlighted how this new code is set to impact the planning process. “The council is currently consulting on an amendment to the local list of requirements within the Validation Checklist. This new Design Code will be a game-changer for us.”
He elaborated on the public consultation process, which began on July 22, 2024, and runs until September 15, 2024. “This consultation period is essential,” Alex stressed. “It’s the time for interested parties to provide their feedback. Once the consultation ends and any necessary adjustments are made, the new version of the Validation Checklist will be implemented.”
Draft Guidance on Construction Site Hours
A significant part of our conversation revolved around the draft guidance on construction site hours deemed consent. This guidance, available on the GOV.UK website, has been instrumental for many in the construction industry.
“Understanding and adhering to the construction site hours is vital,” Alex said. “The draft guidance provides a clear framework on what is deemed acceptable. This not only helps in planning the work schedule but also in maintaining good relations with the local community.”
Design and Access Statements
We also touched upon the necessity of Design and Access Statements for certain types of applications. “These statements are more than just a formality,” Alex pointed out. “They provide a detailed overview of the design principles and access considerations for the project. This information is crucial for the planning authorities to understand the intent and feasibility of the proposed development.”
The Role of Ordnance Survey Maps
No planning application would be complete without the inclusion of Ordnance Survey (OS) maps. Alex emphasised the importance of these maps in the application process. “All planning applications need site plans that are clearly marked. These maps can be obtained from local libraries and customer service centres, which offer a face-to-face service to assist in getting the right documents.”
He shared his experiences of obtaining these maps from various centres such as Beverley Library and the Driffield Centre. “The staff are incredibly helpful, and they offer multiple payment options. You can get the maps in PDF form or printed, whichever suits your needs best.”
Staying Updated
Before wrapping up our conversation, Alex stressed the importance of staying updated with the latest developments and guidelines. “Subscribing to updates from the East Riding of Yorkshire Council is a great way to stay informed. Changes in planning policies or new requirements can have a significant impact on your project, so being in the loop is crucial.”
Final Thoughts
Our discussion was a deep dive into the complexities and requirements of obtaining planning permissions for commercial projects. Alex’s insights provided a valuable perspective on how to navigate this often challenging process effectively. His experience underscores the importance of thorough preparation, understanding the local regulations, and staying informed about any changes.
For anyone embarking on a construction project, whether it be building a new home or undertaking a commercial development, the advice shared by Alex serves as a practical guide to smoothing the path through the planning maze.
Lewis Davis
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