Appeals

When planning applications are rejected, there may be scope to re-apply with amended proposals that still satisfy the client's brief but are also acceptable to the Local Planning Authority. A further option is to lodge an Appeal against the refusal of planning permission.

The practice has made many Appeals on behalf of clients with a remarkably high success rate. If it is agreed with the client that the Appeal will be dealt with by Written Representations, the practice will prepare the necessary documentation and evidence to support its case.

If the application is more complex, it may be necessary to ask for a full Public Inquiry to examine the issues in front of a Planning Inspector. Again, the practice can submit the required documentation for the Appeal and, by using its contacts with planning Chambers to secure the assistance of a suitable Barrister who will handle the case. Under the Barrister's guidance, this will normally involve the preparation of evidence by expert witnesses to enable the issues to be thoroughly assessed through cross-examination in the formal arena of an Inquiry. As architects and planning consultants for the application, the practice will provide an expert witness to appear at the Inquiry.

Projects

Woodlands Park, Great Dunmow
Replacement Dwelling, Acton
Matthews Yard, Moreton
An application for the demolition of an existing dwelling and commercial buildings and erection of 8 dwellings and associated infrastructure was refused by Epping Forest Borough Council. The main issues in the application related to: - . adverse impact on the Green Belt . lack of affordable housing provision . inappropriate design of the proposed dwellings.

It was decided to deal with the Appeal by way of Written Representations.

Despite the submission of a strong case on behalf of the appellant, the Appeal did not succeed. However, it was considered that there was sufficient positive comment about the proposals contained in the Inspector's decision letter to justify making an amended application.

This was done and the Council duly approved the revised proposals.

Former Animal Research Centre, Stock