Planning underpins property law but it’s in a constant state of flux, as the world changes around us and priorities for the uses of land follow suit…

Planning law touches on almost every aspect of property work – whether commercial, industrial, agricultural - or residential; and CooperBurnett supports its clients with their planning law needs whether big or small.

Obtaining planning permission for development is principally the job of planners looking at the local plan as well as the National Planning Policy Framework’. But legal input is vital to help our clients obtain planning permission or to establish the immunity of a use or development from enforcement.  

To obtain planning permission, agreements under The Town and Country Planning Act and The Highway Act can be entered into by landowners. They provide for payments to be made or for works to be carried out that mitigate or accommodate new development including the emerging concept of a ‘conservation covenant’ to enhance biodiversity.  

We can also review emerging draft planning permissions to ensure conditions are lawful and proportionate. Occasionally, we are asked to look at planning from the opposing side, either to prevent development from occurring or to help mitigate the adverse impacts of development.  

Planning law advice is also critical to supporting other aspects of our clients’ property needs – appraising the lawfulness of uses on acquisitions and refinancing, as well as advising on the risks of enforcement and means of avoiding this.