These laws control how individuals and companies use and develop their land and properties, whether they own the land / property or lease it.
If a business wants to change the way it uses its land and buildings, they usually have to apply for permission from the local authority. Without the right legal advice and support, a business can make costly and damaging mistakes when approaching them.
Applying for planning permission is a regimented and formal process and the results can be unpredictable, particularly because the process relies on the local authority interpreting agreed policy.
Refusal of planning permission, or conditions imposed on the granting of permission, can be challenged through an appeals process. A property developer who ignores planning permission conditions can face costly enforcement action.
