What is an architecture planning application?

A planning application is a formal request to your local planning authority (LPA) for permission to begin a building or development project. This is a crucial part of ensuring your project complies with local development policies, environmental considerations, and community guidelines.

The application typically includes documents such as detailed architectural plans, a Design and Access Statement (DAS), and other supporting materials. These are used to demonstrate how the proposed development fits within the existing environment, how it addresses local concerns (such as impact on neighbouring properties), and how it meets specific planning criteria set by the local authority.​

The planning application process

Getting started - know the key guidelines

The government produces various reference materials and guides to help householders, professionals, developers, and communities design and assess building proposals. Before starting, familiarise yourself with important documents that will guide your proposal:

• National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF): This sets out the government's planning policies for England, helping inform development decisions.
• Local Plans: Created by Local Planning Authorities (LPAs), these plans assess how well your proposal aligns with local housing, infrastructure, and community needs.
• Design Guides: These design guidelines encourage high-quality designs that integrate well with the surrounding area.

Conduct a feasibility study

All sites are unique, with different opportunities and constraints, which requires an assessment of your site and its setting. The information we gather will highlight important details, possibilities and limitations, which in turn will influence the final design.

• Site Context: Look at the environment and any historic designations (e.g., listed buildings, Conservation Areas).
• Environmental Impact: Determine if an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required.
• Local Character: Ensure your design complements the surrounding architecture.
• Potential Issues: Identify concerns like privacy or overshadowing that might affect the application.

Pre-application advice

Depending on the sensitivity of your proposals we may we also suggest getting further advice and guidance by conducting preliminary discussions with the LPA with a pre-application enquiry. If your proposal raises any concerns, speaking to the local planning authority (LPA) before submission can help you:

• Understand relevant policies.
• Identify and address issues early.
• Avoid delays and costs by addressing concerns upfront.

Submitting the application

Once your design is finalised, you’ll need to prepare key documents, some of which include:

• Location Plan
• Block Plan
• Site Plan
• Floor Plans
• Elevations
• Design and Access Statement (DAS)
• Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) form
• Ecological trigger table

A well-prepared application shows a thorough understanding of both the unique characteristics of the site and the relevant local planning policies. By demonstrating that you've considered these factors, you ensure your design aligns with planning requirements and increases the likelihood of a smooth and successful approval process.

Want to learn more about the planning process? Check out our guide!

Let’s talk about your planning application today

At Marraum, we’re here to make the entire architectural process as straightforward as possible. Whether it’s presenting your designs in 3D or taking care of the whole planning application, we’ve got it covered. Want to know more? Get in touch with our team today, and we’ll guide you through every step.