Planning Services

Securing planning permission is one of the most critical stages in any building project. At Mark Fairhurst Architects (MFA), with our planning services, we have extensive experience navigating the planning system across a wide range of project types, from domestic extensions to complex commercial and mixed-use developments.

Planning Services – Our Approach

The planning process can often feel complex and uncertain, governed by layers of local, regional, and national policy. We provide clear, strategic advice tailored to the specific context of your site and project. Each scheme is individually assessed to determine the best planning approach, and we guide you step-by-step through the application process.

MFA manages direct liaison with local authorities and planning officers, ensuring your application is effectively presented and progressed. For more complex or sensitive proposals, we can recommend and coordinate with specialist planning consultants, heritage advisers, and transport or environmental consultants as needed.

We understand that public and political support can be vital to a successful planning outcome. MFA can assist with community engagement by preparing exhibition materials, meeting with neighbours, and gathering feedback at early design stages—helping to build support and reduce objections. Where required, we represent projects at planning committee meetings, providing clear and persuasive verbal justification to council members on your behalf.

MFA has an excellent track record, with a 95% success rate on planning applications, and we have successfully represented clients in appeals to the Planning Inspectorate when required.

Following approval, we continue to support your project by discharging planning conditions, coordinating the wider design team, and ensuring all necessary information is submitted efficiently and correctly—allowing you to progress smoothly into the next design and construction stages.

In some cases, planning permission may not be necessary. MFA can advise on the use of Permitted Development Rights (PDR), which allow certain types of work to proceed without a full planning application. This includes:

Changes of use, such as converting offices, barns, or other redundant buildings to residential use
Full demolition and replacement of buildings (under prior approval in some cases)
Domestic extensions—rear, side, roof, loft conversions, and garden studios—within defined limits
Installation of solar panels, porches, outbuildings, and other minor works

Where applicable, we can prepare and submit Certificates of Lawfulness to confirm that proposals fall within permitted development limits, providing clarity and protection before construction begins.

Achieving planning consent is a key milestone that brings legal certainty, unlocks funding or investment, and adds real value to your property. With MFA’s long-standing expertise and strategic approach, you’ll be well supported throughout the planning process – maximising your chances of success.

Links:

https://www.mark-fairhurst.co.uk/permitted-developmetn-10-years-on/

https://www.mark-fairhurst.co.uk/update-planning-permission-reform/