Getting planning permission can be responsible for some of the worst delays in projects. That is why it is important to work with an architect. They can help to reduce the risks by creating the right designs, plans, and drawings. We can help here, giving clients the chance to work with one of the most reputable architects London can offer.

Unfortunately, planning permission processes are proving to be particularly slow at the moment in the UK. According to the latest figures from RIBA in their Future Trends survey, almost 80% of practices are reporting delays. This shows that there is a big logjam.

How long are the delays lasting?

According to the data, 39% of firms are reporting that their projects are being held up by up to a month. Worse, 60% report that work can face delays of between one and six months. This can cause huge problems for projects, especially when it comes to trying to schedule labour and the delivery of materials.

The worst finding though is that 7% of projects are abandoned entirely because of the delays. This can arise because the delay makes the work infeasible in terms of the timescale or because of an increase in costs.

What can change?

There have already been a number of changes to help make it quicker to get planning permission. For example, there has been more digitisation so it is easier to submit plans and complete forms. However, RIBA is campaigning for more reforms. They want the process to be easier still to help address the backlog.

Working with top architects in London

If you are planning a project we urge you to speak to us. We can give you a lot of useful advice about every aspect of the work, including tips on how to hopefully speed up the planning process. Here it is important to provide as much info as you can as soon as possible. This can reduce the chance of the local authority delaying as they ask you for more details.

Another thing you can do is speak to the local authority in advance. You can get their advice about everything from local rules and conservation to materials. This can help you to get the design right and reduce the risk of them having issues with.

So, if you want to work with some of the most skilful architects London can offer, speak to us. We have a lot of experience of getting projects off the ground. As a result we know what most local authorities and planners are looking for and what to avoid.