We provide the planning advice and technical reports needed to take a site from idea to permission, prepared to meet council validation requirements and national policy. Where a specialist is needed, we coordinate them for you.
Grey belt and Green Belt
National policy now allows some development on grey belt: Green Belt land that does not strongly contribute to key Green Belt purposes. We assess whether your site qualifies and make the planning case for development.
Transport, highways and connectivity
Transport statements, highways access advice and connectivity reports using the Department for Transport’s Connectivity Tool, showing how well a site is served by walking, cycling and public transport.
Ecology and biodiversity net gain
Preliminary ecological appraisals, biodiversity net gain assessments and metrics, nesting bird surveys and Habitat Regulations Assessment screening.
Flood risk and drainage
Site-specific flood risk assessments, including the sequential test where it applies, and drainage strategies proportionate to the development.
Coal mining risk
Desk-based coal mining risk assessments for sites in Coal Authority Development High Risk Areas, based on the Mining Remediation Authority’s mining report.
Land contamination
We prepare Phase 1 desk studies to Environment Agency LCRM and YALPAG guidance. They’re based on licensed environmental search data, historical mapping and a site walkover, with the search report appended. Any sampling is tested by MCERTS-accredited laboratories, and reports are reviewed by a qualified geo-environmental specialist.
Trees and arboriculture
Tree surveys to BS 5837, arboricultural impact assessments and tree protection plans.
Planning applications and appeals
Pre-application advice, full, outline and Permission in Principle applications, planning statements, appeals and five-year housing land supply analysis. We also prepare or arrange heritage, noise, landscape and other supporting reports.