“We all know that planning has been inflexible for years… [and needs] reforms to make planning law and procedures simpler, more efficient” i

"When planning is done well it enables us to build thriving, healthy and sustainable communities where people want to work, shop, live or visit. It supports the economic development which is vital to create jobs and ensure our continuing prosperity as a nation and it supports us as individuals improving our homes and property while protecting us from over-intrusive development".ii

However, planning is increasingly politically contestable and it can not be taken for granted that public bodies will always pursue the public good. In addition, innovation and change is happening at an increasing pace. This means that increasingly organisations and individuals are turning to expert planning consultants to assist them in enhancing the quality and effectiveness of submissions and negotiations with a view to smoothing the passage through the planning process.

erm provides a full planning consultancy service, including advice on:-

  • Planning Applications
  • Planning Appeals
  • Sustainable Development
  • Master Planning and Urban Design
  • Strategic Land Appraisal - Including Local Development Framework Representation
  • Landscape Design
  • Section 106 Negotiations
  • Listed Buildings
  • Public Consultation
  • Feasibility Stage Pre-Application Assessment &/or Consultation with LPA
  • Brownfield Regeneration
  • Minerals and Waste Planning
  • Planning Research

 i Gordon Brown, speaking to the CBI national conference, 2005

ii HM Government White Paper: Planning for a Sustainable Future