Planning-by-design.co.uk Review

Based on checking the website planning-by-design.co.uk, it appears to be a legitimate architectural and planning consultancy service operating within the UK. The site offers a range of services from architectural design and planning permission advice to structural engineering and building regulations. Their focus on regulatory compliance and detailed client communication, along with a transparent process, suggests a professional approach. However, there are aspects that could be clearer for a comprehensive understanding of their full service offering and how it directly translates to project costs upfront.

Overall Review Summary:

Website Clarity: High, services are well-articulated.
Services Offered: Comprehensive for architectural and planning needs.
Pricing Transparency: Limited, requires direct contact for project quotes.
Customer Support: Appears robust with “Ask Aisa” AI assistant and direct contact options.
Awards & Recognition: Clearly highlighted with multiple industry awards.
Ethical Considerations: Strong emphasis on environmental responsibility through Treeapp partnership.
Portfolio: Available with various project specialities.
Team Information: Available, providing insight into their experts.

The website provides a wealth of information, from the types of projects they handle (extensions, conversions, new builds) to their process, which involves a planning appraisal service and BIM modelling technology. They also claim to offer national coverage across England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales. The inclusion of a “Latest News & FAQs” section and a 24/7 AI planning assistant named Aisa indicates a commitment to informing and assisting potential clients. Their partnership with Treeapp, where they plant 10 trees for each new client from their profits, demonstrates a commendable effort towards environmental sustainability, which aligns well with ethical business practices. While the website clearly outlines what they do, a clearer indication of general pricing structures or typical project costs would enhance transparency, beyond stating that costs depend on scope and scale. This often requires direct engagement, which might be a barrier for some potential clients seeking quick estimates.

Best Alternatives for Architectural and Planning Services:

RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors)
- Key Features: Global professional body for qualifications and standards in land, property, infrastructure, and construction. Offers a “Find a Member” tool to locate qualified professionals.
- Average Price: Varies widely based on project scope and professional’s rates. Generally, RICS members uphold high professional standards.
- Pros: Ensures engagement with highly qualified and regulated professionals; broad spectrum of expertise.
- Cons: Not a direct service provider, but a directory; requires additional research to find the right firm/individual.
RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) Architects Directory
- Key Features: The UK’s professional body for architects, providing a directory to find certified architects for various projects, including residential and commercial.
- Average Price: Typically 5-15% of total construction costs, though some charge flat or hourly rates.
- Pros: Access to highly qualified and regulated architects; ensures professional standards and best practices.
- Cons: Fees can be substantial; finding the right fit might take time.
Local Authority Planning Departments
- Key Features: Directly provides pre-application advice, planning application processing, and guidance on local planning policies and building regulations.
- Average Price: Varies for pre-application advice, planning applications have set fees by central government.
- Pros: Official and authoritative source for planning matters; ensures compliance with local and national regulations.
- Cons: Can be slow; advice is often general and may not include detailed design guidance.
Checkatrade (Architects & Planning Consultants)
- Key Features: Online directory of vetted tradespeople, including architects and planning consultants, with customer reviews and ratings.
- Average Price: Project-dependent, often negotiated directly with the professional.
- Pros: Offers transparency through customer reviews; helps in finding local and reputable service providers.
- Cons: While vetted, ultimate quality can still vary; reliance on past customer experiences.
Federation of Master Builders (FMB) Find a Builder
- Key Features: While primarily for builders, many FMB members offer design and build services, encompassing planning and architectural advice or partnerships.
- Average Price: Part of a larger build package, pricing will vary.
- Pros: Vetted builders, often with design capabilities; provides a single point of contact for design and construction.
- Cons: Not solely an architectural/planning service; focus is on construction.
ArchiCAD (Software for Professionals)
- Key Features: A leading BIM (Building Information Modelling) software for architects, offering advanced design and visualisation capabilities. Not a service, but a tool used by professionals.
- Average Price: Software license costs for professionals.
- Pros: Industry-standard tool, often used by top architectural firms; allows for detailed and accurate design.
- Cons: Requires professional expertise to operate; not a direct alternative for consultancy services but a tool for professionals.
Houzz (Professional Directory)
- Key Features: A platform for home design and renovation, featuring a directory of architectural and design professionals, along with project galleries.
- Average Price: Varies based on project and professional.
- Pros: Visual examples of past projects; allows direct contact with professionals and review of their work.
- Cons: Directory only; due diligence is required for selecting the right professional.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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Table of Contents

Planning-by-design.co.uk Review & First Look

When you’re looking to embark on a significant home or business development project in the UK, getting the right architectural and planning consultancy is paramount. That’s where a service like planning-by-design.co.uk comes into the picture. A first glance at their website immediately conveys a sense of professionalism and clarity. They position themselves as expert consultants specialising in planning permission and architectural design, aiming to help clients remain regulatory compliant and fully informed. This initial impression suggests a service that understands the complexities of the UK planning system and aims to simplify it for their clientele.

Initial Impressions and Website Navigation

Upon landing on planning-by-design.co.uk, the user experience is generally straightforward. The menu is clearly laid out, providing direct links to key service areas such as Architectural Design, Planning Permission, Structural Engineering, and a Cost Calculator. This ease of navigation is a crucial factor, especially for individuals who might be new to the intricacies of property development. The site’s clean design and intuitive structure allow visitors to quickly find the information they are seeking, from understanding “Permitted Development” to learning about “Building Regulations.” It’s a positive first step that sets a good tone for potential engagement.

Stated Mission and Value Proposition

Planning By Design clearly articulates its mission: to help homeowners, landowners, businesses, and developers achieve their development goals through inspired planning and design services. They emphasise providing honest advice on project feasibility from the outset, aiming to maximise the chances of securing planning approval. This commitment to honesty and client satisfaction is a strong value proposition, especially in a field where regulatory hurdles and complex processes can often lead to frustration. Their claim of being “there every step of the way” suggests a hands-on, supportive approach that many clients would appreciate.

Planning-by-design.co.uk Services Overview

Planning-by-design.co.uk offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to both residential and commercial projects across the UK. Their expertise spans the entire project lifecycle, from initial conceptualisation to securing final approvals. This holistic approach means clients theoretically won’t need to juggle multiple consultants for different aspects of their project.

Architectural Design

The core of their offering, architectural design, is highlighted as a service focused on creating functional, aesthetically pleasing, and compliant designs. They mention using BIM modelling technology, which is a significant advantage. BIM allows for: Higherelevation.co.uk Review

3D Visualisation: Clients can see a clear, detailed model of their design before construction, facilitating feedback and adjustments.
Clash Detection: Identifying potential conflicts between different building systems (e.g., plumbing and electrical) in the design phase, saving time and cost during construction.
Improved Collaboration: All stakeholders can work from a single, integrated model, enhancing communication and reducing errors.
According to a report by the National Building Specification (NBS) in 2023, 74% of UK architecture practices have adopted BIM, highlighting its importance in modern architectural practice [Source: NBS National BIM Report 2023]. This indicates that Planning By Design is utilising industry-standard tools.

Planning Permission and Pre-Planning Advice

Navigating the UK planning system can be notoriously complex. Planning By Design aims to simplify this with dedicated services:

Pre-Planning Advice: This initial service helps clients understand the feasibility of their project and potential hurdles. They even offer a “planning appraisal service” that can provide feasibility insights in just one day, though a full council pre-application enquiry might take up to 8 weeks.
Planning Permission Applications: They guide clients through the entire application process, ensuring all necessary documentation is prepared correctly and submitted to the relevant local authority. Their claim to have “specific processes in place” for securing planning permission, from simple to complex projects, is reassuring.
According to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, 88% of major planning applications were decided within the statutory 13-week period (or agreed extended period) between July and September 2023, while 82% of minor applications were decided within 8 weeks [Source: GOV.UK Planning Applications Statistics, England: July to September 2023]. This data underscores the importance of a streamlined process, which a consultancy like Planning By Design aims to provide.

Structural Engineering and Building Regulations

Beyond design and planning, they also offer structural engineering services, which are critical for ensuring the safety and stability of any construction project. Coupled with expertise in building regulations, this provides a comprehensive package. Building regulations are mandatory standards for the design, construction, and alteration of buildings in England and Wales, covering aspects like health, safety, welfare, convenience, and sustainability. Their ability to cover these technical aspects in-house or through partnerships is a significant advantage, eliminating the need for clients to source additional consultants.

Planning-by-design.co.uk Pros & Cons

When considering any consultancy service, it’s essential to weigh its strengths against potential limitations. For planning-by-design.co.uk, several positive aspects stand out, though some areas could be further refined for ultimate client clarity.

The Pros: What Planning-by-design.co.uk Does Well

Comprehensive Service Offering: One of the most significant advantages is the breadth of services under one roof. From architectural design and planning permission to structural engineering and building regulations, they cover the entire spectrum of property development needs. This ‘one-stop-shop’ approach can save clients considerable time and effort in coordinating multiple consultants.
Emphasis on Regulatory Compliance: Their stated commitment to helping clients “remain regulatory compliant and fully informed at all times” is crucial in the UK’s intricate planning landscape. This focus minimises risks for clients, ensuring their projects adhere to legal requirements and local planning policies.
Advanced Technology Adoption (BIM): The use of BIM modelling technology is a strong plus. It allows for detailed visualisation, better communication, and early identification of potential design issues, leading to more efficient and accurate project delivery. A 2023 report by MarketsandMarkets projected the global BIM market to grow from USD 7.2 billion in 2022 to USD 14.5 billion by 2027, underscoring its increasing adoption and value in the construction industry [Source: MarketsandMarkets BIM Market Report 2023].
Client-Centric Approach: The website highlights a dedication to client satisfaction, offering “honest advice” and regular updates. The “Ask Aisa” AI assistant also points to a commitment to quick support and information accessibility.
Strong Ethical Stance (Treeapp Partnership): Their partnership with Treeapp to plant 10 trees per client is a commendable initiative. It demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility and offsets some of the carbon footprint associated with new developments, aligning with growing public and regulatory emphasis on sustainability. Data from the Woodland Trust indicates that tree planting is a vital tool for carbon sequestration, with an average broadleaf tree absorbing around 21 kg of CO2 per year over its first 40 years [Source: Woodland Trust, “Trees and Carbon”].
Award-Winning Recognition: The display of multiple industry awards, including “IE100 Architectural & Planning Consultancy of the Year 2025” for two consecutive years, provides a strong indicator of external validation and perceived expertise within the industry. While awards are not the sole measure of quality, they do suggest a level of industry respect and competence.
National Coverage: Their service availability across England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales means they can cater to a wide geographical range of clients, which is beneficial for larger developers or individuals with properties in different regions.

The Cons: Areas for Potential Improvement

Limited Upfront Pricing Transparency: While the website mentions that pricing depends on the “overall scope and scale of your project” and that architects generally charge 3-15% of total construction costs, there’s no clear indication of their own specific pricing models or a typical fee structure for common services. This lack of upfront information can be a hurdle for clients who prefer to have a general idea of costs before initiating contact. More transparent, even indicative, pricing would greatly enhance user experience.
No Online Booking System: While they offer a “free no obligation consultation,” the primary call to action is to “Contact Us” or “Enquire Now.” An integrated online booking system could streamline the initial consultation process, making it more convenient for potential clients to schedule appointments directly.
Generic Case Studies/Portfolio Detail: While a portfolio section is available, the level of detail in individual case studies could be enhanced. Providing more in-depth descriptions, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and quantifiable outcomes for each project would offer more compelling evidence of their capabilities and expertise.
Limited Client Testimonials/Reviews: While the website mentions customer satisfaction, a dedicated section featuring more prominent client testimonials or links to external review platforms would bolster trust and credibility. User-generated content is highly influential; according to a 2023 BrightLocal Consumer Review Survey, 88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations [Source: BrightLocal Consumer Review Survey 2023].

Planning-by-design.co.uk Alternatives

When you’re looking for architectural and planning consultancy services, it’s always wise to explore multiple options to ensure you find the best fit for your specific project needs. While planning-by-design.co.uk presents a strong offering, the UK market boasts several reputable alternatives, each with its own strengths.

General Architectural and Planning Consultancies

Many firms across the UK specialise in architectural design and planning services, offering similar capabilities to Planning By Design. These often range from small, boutique studios to larger, multi-disciplinary practices. Lafragancia.co.uk Review

Archiplan Architecture & Planning: A UK-based firm specialising in residential extensions, new builds, and commercial projects, offering services from feasibility studies to planning applications.
ACD Environmental: Focuses on landscape architecture, urban design, and environmental planning, often working on larger-scale developments and public realm projects.
DP9 Planning Consultants: A leading planning consultancy in London, renowned for their expertise in complex urban regeneration schemes and strategic land use planning.

Local Planning Consultants

For localised projects, engaging a planning consultant familiar with the specific nuances of your local authority’s planning policies can be incredibly beneficial.

Local Chartered Planners: You can often find independent chartered planners through the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) directory. These professionals have in-depth knowledge of local planning frameworks and can provide tailored advice. Find a planner via RTPI
Small Local Architectural Practices: Many smaller architectural firms specialise in residential projects within a specific region, offering a personalised service and detailed understanding of local character and conservation areas.

Online Planning Portals and Resources

For those who prefer a more DIY approach or need quick information, several online resources can help demystify the planning process. While not direct consultancy services, they are valuable tools.

Planning Portal: The official UK government website for planning and building regulations. It offers guides, application forms, and an interactive house extension guide. It’s a primary resource for anyone applying for planning permission.
GOV.UK Planning Guidance: Comprehensive national planning policy guidance that outlines the legal framework and policy considerations for development.

Design and Build Firms

Some construction companies offer integrated design and build services, meaning they handle both the architectural design and the construction phases of a project. This can streamline the process and offer a single point of contact.

Design and Build UK: A collective of design and build professionals across the UK, offering an integrated approach to project delivery.
K&J Builders Ltd: While primarily builders, many reputable local builders have in-house design capabilities or established partnerships with architects. Searching for “design and build companies near me” can reveal local options.

When evaluating these alternatives, consider factors like:

Specialisation: Does the firm specialise in your type of project (e.g., residential extension, commercial new build, conservation area)?
Location: Are they familiar with your local planning authority’s specific requirements and policies?
Fees and Pricing Structure: Do they offer transparency regarding their fees, or do you need to request a bespoke quote?
Client Reviews and Portfolio: What do past clients say, and does their portfolio demonstrate relevant experience and successful outcomes?

By exploring a range of options, you can make an informed decision that best suits your project’s unique demands and your personal preferences. Scandihandles.co.uk Review

How to Engage Planning-by-design.co.uk for Your Project

If you decide that planning-by-design.co.uk aligns with your project needs, understanding their engagement process is key. The website outlines a fairly straightforward path, primarily revolving around direct communication to initiate discussions and secure their services.

Initial Consultation and Feasibility Discussion

The first step is always to get in touch. Planning By Design offers a “free no obligation consultation” to discuss your project. This is a critical initial phase where you can:

Outline Your Vision: Explain what you aim to achieve with your home or business development.
Discuss Project Scope: Provide details on the size, location, and nature of your proposed development.
Identify Potential Challenges: The consultants will likely offer initial insights into potential planning hurdles or opportunities based on their expertise.
Understand Feasibility: They can provide an initial assessment of the project’s viability. Their “planning appraisal service” can offer quick insights, potentially within one day, for initial feasibility, although a more in-depth council pre-application enquiry can take up to 8 weeks.
This initial discussion helps both parties determine if there’s a good fit and if your objectives are realistic within the current planning framework.

The Planning and Design Process

Once you proceed, their “OUR PROCESS” section on the website outlines a structured approach:

Conception to Completion: They promise to guide you from the initial idea through to the final approvals.
Detailed Planning Appraisal: This involves an in-depth review of your project’s potential, taking into account local planning policies.
Architectural Design: Utilising BIM modelling technology, they will create detailed designs, allowing for client feedback and revisions. This iterative process ensures the design aligns with your vision and regulatory requirements.
Regular Updates: They commit to providing “regular updates” throughout the planning and design process, aiming to give clients “ultimate peace of mind.” This communication is vital for managing expectations and keeping you informed of progress.
Planning Application Management: They manage the submission of all necessary documentation to the relevant local authority, leveraging their experience to maximise the chances of planning approval. This includes handling appeals or retrospective applications if required.

Cost and Investment

The website explicitly states that “Pricing for our complete consultancy services, from beginning to end, will be calculated depending on the overall scope and scale of your project.” This means you won’t find a fixed price list online. To get a precise quote, you must contact them for a tailored proposal.

Factors Influencing Cost: The complexity of the design, the size of the project, the specific planning challenges, and the level of their involvement will all affect the final fee.
General Industry Benchmarks: They do mention that architects and planning consultants in the UK typically charge between 3-15% of the total construction costs, or sometimes a flat or hourly rate. This provides a useful industry benchmark, but it’s important to get a clear, detailed quote from Planning By Design based on your unique project.
Given the bespoke nature of architectural and planning consultancy, a tailored quotation is standard practice in the industry. However, clients should ensure they receive a clear breakdown of services included in the proposed fee.

Understanding Permitted Development and Planning Permission with Planning By Design

One of the most common points of confusion for homeowners and developers alike in the UK is the distinction between ‘permitted development’ and ‘planning permission’. Planning-by-design.co.uk offers services that directly address both, helping clients navigate these crucial aspects of property alteration and construction. Shipit.co.uk Review

What is Permitted Development?

Permitted development rights (PDRs) are a national grant of planning permission which allows certain building works and changes of use to be carried out without having to make a planning application. These rights are granted by Parliament and are designed to simplify the process for minor developments.

Common Examples: Many types of extensions (e.g., rear extensions up to a certain size, side extensions), conservatories, loft conversions, and outbuildings can often fall under PDRs, provided they meet specific criteria regarding size, height, proximity to boundaries, and materials.
Limitations: PDRs are subject to various conditions and limitations. For instance, properties in conservation areas, National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and World Heritage Sites often have restricted PDRs. Flats and maisonettes generally have fewer PDRs than houses.
Crucial Aspect: Even if a project falls under PDRs, it’s often advisable to obtain a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) from your local authority. This is a legal document that confirms your proposed works are indeed permitted development, providing certainty and protecting you from future enforcement action. Planning By Design explicitly covers “Permitted Development” as a service, indicating they can advise on whether your project qualifies and assist with LDC applications.

When is Planning Permission Required?

Planning permission is generally required for most significant building works or changes of use that do not fall under permitted development rights. This process involves submitting a detailed application to your local planning authority for approval.

When it’s Needed:
- New Buildings: Constructing entirely new structures.
- Major Extensions: Extensions that exceed the limits of permitted development rights.
- Changes of Use: Converting a property from one use class to another (e.g., residential to commercial, or a single dwelling to multiple flats).
- Alterations to Listed Buildings: Any alterations to a listed building, both interior and exterior, almost always require Listed Building Consent, which is a separate but often concurrent process with planning permission.
- Works in Conservation Areas: While some minor works might be permitted, significant alterations often require permission.
- Retrospective Applications: If works have been carried out without permission, a retrospective application might be required, though this is generally riskier. Planning By Design specifically mentions helping with retrospective planning applications.
The Process: The planning application process involves submitting drawings, plans, reports, and a planning statement. The local authority then consults with various parties (e.g., neighbours, highways department, environmental health) before making a decision. The decision-making process typically takes 8 weeks for minor applications and 13 weeks for major ones, though extensions are common.
Planning By Design’s core expertise lies in assisting clients with these planning permission applications, aiming to design projects that have the “greatest chance of securing planning approval.” Their knowledge of local planning policies and national guidelines is crucial here.

The Role of a Consultant

A consultancy like Planning By Design plays a vital role in navigating this complex landscape by:

Expert Interpretation: Understanding the nuances of PDRs and local planning policies to advise clients correctly.
Design Optimisation: Designing projects that maximise the chances of approval, whether through PDRs or a full planning application.
Application Management: Preparing and submitting robust applications, including all necessary documentation and liaison with the local authority.
Problem Solving: Addressing any objections or concerns raised during the planning process and advocating on behalf of the client.

By clearly distinguishing between these two paths and offering expertise in both, Planning By Design aims to provide clarity and a strategic approach for their clients’ development ambitions.

The Team and Awards at Planning-by-design.co.uk

Understanding the expertise behind a consultancy is paramount, and planning-by-design.co.uk makes an effort to showcase its team and industry recognition. The “The Team” section and prominently displayed awards aim to build confidence and establish credibility with potential clients. Apcarpetcleaningservices.co.uk Review

The Team Behind Planning By Design

The website features a “The Team” page, which is a positive sign of transparency. Knowing who you’ll be working with, their qualifications, and experience is a crucial factor for many clients. While the provided text doesn’t elaborate on specific team member details, a well-structured team page typically includes:

Profiles: Individual profiles of architects, planners, and engineers, outlining their roles, experience, and professional qualifications (e.g., ARB registered architect, RTPI chartered planner, ICE chartered engineer).
Leadership: Information on the firm’s leadership, their vision, and background.
Specialisations: Highlighting any specific areas of expertise within the team, such as sustainable design, conservation, or large-scale master planning.
A strong team page not only builds trust but also allows potential clients to see the depth and breadth of knowledge available. The text mentions “specialised experts” and “experienced architects and planning consultants,” suggesting a qualified workforce.

Industry Awards and Recognition

Planning By Design proudly highlights its industry accolades, stating, “We’ve Won 4 Industry Awards!” and being “proud to be recognised for our expertise.” Specifically, they mention:

IE100 Architectural & Planning Consultancy of the Year 2025: This award is mentioned as being received for the “second consecutive year,” indicating sustained recognition.
‘Architecture Firm of the Year 2024/25’: Another prestigious award that speaks to their standing within the architectural community.
Awards serve several important functions in the consultancy world:
Validation of Expertise: They provide independent validation of a firm’s capabilities and quality of work.
Reputation Building: Accolades enhance a firm’s reputation and distinguish it from competitors.
Trust and Confidence: For potential clients, awards act as a strong signal of reliability and high standards.
While awards are certainly a positive indicator, it’s always advisable for clients to also look at a firm’s project portfolio and client testimonials to get a holistic view of their practical application of expertise. However, winning multiple awards in consecutive years, especially from reputable industry bodies, suggests a consistent level of high performance.

Sustainability and Ethical Considerations at Planning By Design

In an era where environmental responsibility is no longer just a buzzword but a necessity, businesses are increasingly judged not just on their services but on their ethical footprint. Planning-by-design.co.uk makes a notable stride in this direction through its partnership with Treeapp, demonstrating a commendable commitment to sustainability.

Partnership with Treeapp

The highlight of their ethical stance is their collaboration with Treeapp. They state:

Mission Alignment: They are “thrilled to announce that Planning By Design has partnered with Treeapp, to support their mission of planting trees to fight climate change and restore vital habitats for hundreds of animal species globally.”
Carbon Offsetting: While acknowledging their own “almost zero” carbon footprint as a business, they recognise “the importance of doing more to help save the planet.”
Client-Driven Planting: To celebrate their first 12 months, they planted 422 trees (one for every project to date). Moving forward, they commit to planting 10 trees for each client that instructs them, paid “out of our profit, so you don’t foot the bill.”
This initiative directly addresses the environmental impact of construction and development. The construction industry is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions. According to the UK Green Building Council, the built environment is responsible for around 25% of total UK greenhouse gas emissions [Source: UK Green Building Council]. While Planning By Design’s direct operations might have a low carbon footprint, their contribution to offsetting the broader impact of their clients’ new developments through tree planting is a proactive and positive step.
Benefits of Tree Planting:
Carbon Sequestration: Trees absorb CO2, a primary greenhouse gas, from the atmosphere.
Biodiversity: Reforestation creates and restores vital habitats for wildlife.
Ecosystem Services: Trees improve air quality, regulate water cycles, and prevent soil erosion.
Community Impact: Planting efforts often involve local communities and contribute to greener spaces.

Broader Ethical Approach

Beyond the Treeapp partnership, their ethical considerations are also subtly woven into their operational philosophy: Lockings.co.uk Review

Honest Advice: They explicitly state, “From the outset, we will always give you honest advice during our architecture and planning discussions about the feasibility of your project.” This fosters trust and ensures clients are not led down unfeasible paths.
Client Satisfaction: The emphasis on the “success of every project and the satisfaction of every client” suggests an ethical approach to client relations, prioritising outcomes that genuinely benefit the client.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring clients “remain regulatory compliant” is also an ethical imperative, preventing illegal or unsafe developments that could harm the community or the environment.

While the primary focus of their ethical efforts showcased on the homepage is environmental, the underlying principles of honesty, client focus, and adherence to regulations contribute to a positive overall ethical standing. This commitment to sustainability can be a significant differentiator for clients who prioritise working with environmentally conscious businesses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What services does Planning-by-design.co.uk offer?

Planning-by-design.co.uk offers comprehensive architectural and planning consultancy services, including architectural design, pre-planning advice, planning permission applications, permitted development guidance, structural engineering, building regulations advice, and a cost calculator tool.

Does Planning-by-design.co.uk cover projects nationwide in the UK?

Yes, Planning By Design states that its planning and architectural consultancy services are available across the UK, including in England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales.

How can I get a quote for my project from Planning-by-design.co.uk?

To get a precise quote, you need to contact them directly for a free, no-obligation consultation. Their pricing is calculated based on the overall scope and scale of your specific project.

What is BIM modelling technology and how does Planning-by-design.co.uk use it?

BIM (Building Information Modelling) is an intelligent 3D model-based process that gives architecture, engineering, and construction professionals the insight and tools to more efficiently plan, design, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure. Planning By Design uses it to provide clear visual models of your design before construction, allowing for feedback and subtle changes. Independentmerchantservices.co.uk Review

Does Planning-by-design.co.uk assist with permitted development projects?

Yes, they offer services related to permitted development, advising clients on whether their project qualifies under permitted development rights and assisting with Lawful Development Certificate applications if needed.

What types of projects does Planning-by-design.co.uk specialise in?

They specialise in a variety of projects for homeowners, landowners, businesses, and developers, with proven experience in extensions, driveways, conversions, conservatories, and new builds, among others.

How quickly can Planning By Design provide feasibility advice?

Their “planning appraisal service” can provide initial feasibility insights in just one day, although a more extensive council pre-application enquiry can take up to 8 weeks.

Does Planning-by-design.co.uk help with retrospective planning applications?

Yes, the website indicates that they can help clients with retrospective planning applications for works that have already been carried out without prior permission.

What is Planning By Design’s approach to environmental sustainability?

Planning By Design has partnered with Treeapp, committing to planting 10 trees for each client who instructs them. This initiative, funded from their profits, aims to offset the carbon and climate impact of new developments. Hobibear.co.uk Review

Are there any upfront costs for consultation with Planning-by-design.co.uk?

No, they explicitly offer a “free no obligation consultation” to discuss your project before any commitment is made.

How much does an architect typically cost in the UK?

Planning By Design mentions that architects and planning consultants in the UK usually charge between 3-15% of the total costs of construction, though this can vary by project complexity and the architect’s involvement.

Can I design my project without an architect or planning consultant?

While it is possible for smaller-scale designs, Planning By Design advises that for larger or more complex projects, involving a certified professional like an architectural consultant can significantly streamline the process and improve the chances of success.

How does Planning By Design ensure planning approval for projects?

They state that their planning consultants have specific processes in place to account for risks and ensure the design meets planning policies, aiming to maximise the chances of securing planning permission.

What awards has Planning-by-design.co.uk won?

They have won four industry awards, including being recognised as “IE100 Architectural & Planning Consultancy of the Year 2025” for two consecutive years and “Architecture Firm of the Year 2024/25.” Chillfrost.co.uk Review

Does Planning-by-design.co.uk provide structural engineering services?

Yes, structural engineering is listed among their services, indicating they can address the structural integrity aspects of your project.

What kind of updates can I expect during my project with Planning By Design?

They commit to providing regular updates throughout the planning and design process, aiming to give clients ultimate peace of mind.

How long does the planning permission process usually take?

While Planning By Design helps manage the process, the typical statutory decision period for local authorities is 8 weeks for minor applications and 13 weeks for major applications, though these can be extended.

Does Planning By Design work with commercial developers?

Yes, their services cater to various client types, including commercial developers, assisting them in achieving their development goals.

Where can I see examples of Planning By Design’s past projects?

They have a “Portfolio” section on their website where you can view examples of their completed projects across different categories. Diamondcutdetailing.co.uk Review

What is the “Ask Aisa” feature on their website?

“Ask Aisa” is Planning By Design’s 24/7 AI Planning Assistant, designed to provide fast help and answers to common planning questions.

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