In Scotland there are over 40,000 applications for planning permission lodged with local councils every year and over 90% of these are granted. How are these applications decided and what role does a Scottish architect play in this process?
Complicated Rules
First of all the rules for planning are very complicated and so anyone thinking of embarking on any kind of home extension, new build or even commercial revamp should seriously consider engaging the professional services of an architect at the beginning of their project.
Most planning permissions are granted at local council level and they have the final say as to what projects require permission and what can be deemed as permitted developments.
You may not even need planning permission.
Where permission is required you need to ask your neighbours! Your neighbours will have up to fourteen days to comment or object to your plans and in certain cases your application requires to be published in the local paper. Again here you architect will be worth their weight in gold and their local knowledge will be useful.
Planning Considerations
Local council planning offices have to consider a vast number of things when they receive an application. They are responsible for ensuring and controlling positive change throughout our towns and cities, to safeguard historic buildings and areas of natural beauty while encouraging urban regeneration and sustainable building projects.
It's a lot to juggle but any architect worth his salt will have a good, working relationship with a local planning office and will be aware of what will pass and what wont. This relationship can save you both time and money.
Possible Outcomes
There are three possible outcomes for any application for planning permission.
1. permission granted without conditions
2. permission granted with conditions
3. permission not granted
The local council in Scotland will in around 80% of the cases make a decision within 8 weeks of receiving an application.
Depending on the outcome you will need your architect on hand either to get the ball rolling on your project, to explain any conditions and adjust your plans accordingly or to lodge and appeal if the architect deems it necessary.
So you can see the clear benefit of engaging an architect at the beginning of the project and how they can smooth the path to planning consent.
It is always wise to use a local architect as the rules, regulations and laws differ from area to area and country to country, for example an architect based in Scotland would have little local knowledge of the London area and vice versa.
Local architect equals local knowledge and in a construction project that local knowledge can save time and money!
Author Resource:
Kenneth Martin is an experienced architect in Scotland. He has an in-depth knowledge of how the planning process works, and has built good relationships with local planners. When it comes to choosing an architect for your project Kenneth specialises in delivering your vision. Check out Architect Glasgow .
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