Prior Approval Applications
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PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT WITH CLARITY AND CONFIDENCE
Some forms of development can proceed under permitted development rights, subject to a prior approval process. Our Prior Approval Applications service helps you understand what is possible on your site and guides you through the steps required to secure consent, allowing projects to move forward with clarity and confidence.
Prior approval is a formal process where the local authority reviews specific aspects of a proposal, such as design, siting, transport, and impact on neighbours or the surrounding area. It is commonly required for certain types of extensions, agricultural buildings, change of use, and other permitted developments. We assess eligibility and manage the process to ensure your proposal meets all necessary requirements.
HOW WE CAN HELP
Our team provides clear, practical guidance throughout the prior approval process, starting with an assessment of whether your project qualifies under permitted development rights. We review relevant planning criteria and local considerations, including site context and any constraints that may influence the proposal. We then prepare the necessary technical drawings and supporting information, ensuring everything is aligned with local authority expectations before managing the submission on your behalf. Where needed, we advise on adjustments to strengthen the application and support a smooth, well-informed route to approval.
architectural SERVICES
Project Appraisals
Assesses planning policy, constraints, and opportunities to guide investment decisions.
Planning and Listed Building Applications
Manages sensitive, well-justified applications for smooth approval by local planning authorities.
Certificate of Lawfulness Applications
Prepares applications confirming developments meet all relevant legal requirements.
Feasibility Studies and Concept Assessments
Analyses planning, access, and budget to define site potential before any design work begins.
Discharge of Planning Conditions
Submits required documents to discharge conditions, ensuring smooth project progression.
Building Regulation Applications
Produces compliant drawings and specifications for timely Building Control approval.
Pre-application Advice and Submission
Prepares and submits enquiries to gain feedback, shaping and strengthening future proposals.
Prior Approval Applications
Confirms permitted development eligibility and secures necessary prior approval consents.
Construction Contract Administration
Oversees construction progress, quality, and changes to ensure delivery matches plans.
WHY PRIOR APPROVAL APPLICATIONS ARE CRUCIAL
While permitted development can simplify the planning process, prior approval is still a critical step that requires careful consideration. A well-prepared application reduces the risk of delays or refusal by addressing key concerns early, such as design quality, neighbour impact, and plot constraints.
It provides reassurance that your proposal complies with current regulations and allows work to proceed lawfully. Taking the time to approach prior approval properly helps avoid costly changes later and supports a smoother path from concept to construction.
why choose atlantek architects
We are a Cornwall based, design led practice with a clear understanding of permitted development and prior approval processes. Our approach is thoughtful and practical, ensuring proposals are both compliant and well considered in their setting. We take time to understand your project and provide straightforward advice that supports confident decisions. With local knowledge and careful preparation, helping you move forward with fewer uncertainties and a stronger likelihood of approval.
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Not every project needs prior approval, but many different types of permitted development will. That includes bigger home extensions, barn conversions, and certain changes of use. Before letting work begin we take a close look at your proposal against the current regulations to figure out if prior approval is needed or not.
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You'll often need prior approval for projects such as large rear extensions, new barns, turning old barns or commercial buildings into residential homes. What your project needs in terms of prior approval will depend on the type of project and where it is, so especially in areas like AONB or near neighbour's houses.
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Most of the time we can decide on prior approval applications within 6 to 8 weeks, but that can depend on how complicated the proposal is and whether the local council asks for extra information.
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Yeah, prior approval can be turned down if the proposal doesn't meet the necessary criteria, which can be about design, impact on neighbours, roads, or environmental factors. Putting some real thought into your application and addressing these problems right from the start can help cut down on the chance of your application being knocked back.
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If your proposal doesn't meet the criteria for permitted development then you might still be able to push forward with a full planning application. We can help you figure out alternative routes and tweak the design if needed to improve the chances of getting the approval you need.
faq’s
We worked closely with Rob to design a house that would fit into the street scene whilst still also meeting all of our needs. Rob was very responsive and professional throughout and provided excellent advice at all stages of the design process, where we were very pleased with the end result. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Rob to friends and family.
Mark
St. Mawes
testimonials
Rob’s creativity and professionalism coupled with his integrity and easy nature has made what could have been a stressful and challenging experience an absolute joy.
Would never use anyone else now.
Rosie
Newquay
Although ours has been a difficult build, with Rob’s direction our new home is all we could possibly wish for.
I would highly recommend Rob to anyone who is looking for an architect who is both professional and personable.
A big thank you Rob, keep up the good work
Julie
Plymouth
Thank you, Simon. We came to you with just a rough idea of what we wanted, and you not only fulfilled the brief but brought it to life beautifully. Your assistance, guidance, and knowledge have been brilliant throughout. Nothing was ever too much trouble.
Highly recommended.
Mr. & Mrs. Herman
Falmouth
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