A planning appraisal is an assessment of the development potential of a site based on planning policy and other considerations.
Reasons why should carry out a planning appraisal
A planning appraisal may be carried out for a number of reasons including but not limited to:
- To assess whether a site is suitable for a specific development, or to identify alternative development options for a site in which you have an interest
- To establish the site-specific opportunities and constraints which will affect your decision-making process
- To distinguish between immediate and longer-term potential
- To identify additional information which may be needed for a final decision on whether to proceed
The appraisal should, as a matter of routine, cover site characteristics, planning history and relevant planning policy.
However, the key skill is to interpret this information. The following questions should provide a useful starting point.
Some Questions to Answer
- Is the proposal in accordance with the Development Plan, considering not only individual policies but the overall direction of the Plan?
- Should Local Plan policies be given reduced weight due to:
- Passage of time
- Changes in circumstances at the site
- Conflict with National Planning Policy Framework
- Current evidence of supply and demand for different types of land use
- Are there material considerations which would outweigh any policy conflict?
- Are there relevant permitted development rights available?
- Is site-specific evidence needed to support your case? (e.g. viability assessment)
- What opportunities and constraints arise from the site characteristics and what will their impact be on development capacity?
- How likely are current constraints to change with time? (e.g. regeneration initiatives which may improve viability, provision of new infrastructure)
- Was any refusal tested at appeal, can amendments address previous concerns or have circumstances changed?
The results
This framework provides a starting point, to be adapted to a specific proposal, site or user requirement. The outcome might range from a site being swiftly discounted to the production of a formal report to justify a site acquisition to the company board.
Recommendation
When providing a detailed appraisal, Georole Planning Team undertake research on a number of critical aspects that affect the development potential of a site.
Our experts understand the planning system, having experience assessing and promoting schemes and securing consents. Our expertise covers all types and scales of development. We use this expertise to review planning policy and decisions to advise on the prospects of development.
From this informed position we can advise on the potential development but most importantly the routes to achieving the required permissions. These options can include outline, full planning application and permitted development. This is the planning strategy to deliver the vision for the site.
The matters we cover in our appraisals:
- Existing lawful use
- Constraints
- Designations
- Planning history
- Current planning policy
- Emerging planning policy
- Strategic and national planning policy
- Permitted development
- Consenting options
- Community Infrastructure Levy
- Timescales
- External consultants
Therefore, if you want to call in expert help, you know where to come!
