Planning Enforcement

Shape Urban Planning Consultants advises on planning enforcement matters and helps you choose the best course of action. Planning enforcement is how the Council deals with a breach of planning control. If you have received a letter or notice, we can explain what it means and what to do next. 

What is a breach of planning control?

A breach can take several forms. For example, you may have carried out development without planning permission. A premises may operate under a different use class from the one it has permission for. Or someone may have broken a condition attached to a planning permission.

What happens if the Council starts planning enforcement action?

If the Council believes a breach has happened, it may start planning enforcement action. It may first write to you or ask to visit the site. It can also serve an enforcement notice. The notice sets a date when it takes effect, and you must make any appeal before that date. So act quickly if you receive one.

We can advise on whether an appeal against the notice is the most appropriate course of action. Our planning appeals page explains how appeals work.

Retrospective applications and other options

Sometimes the best answer is to talk to the Council. You may be able to submit a retrospective planning application to regularise unauthorised works or development. Alternatively, you may be able to show that the development is already lawful, for example with a certificate of lawfulness. We look at the facts and advise on the most sensible option.

How Shape can help

First, we review the allegation, the planning history and the evidence. Then we recommend a route and prepare the paperwork. We also speak to the Council on your behalf. If your case goes to appeal, we prepare it and represent you before the Planning Inspector.

For national guidance, read the GOV.UK guidance on planning enforcement (https://www NULL.gov NULL.uk/guidance/ensuring-effective-enforcement).

Talk to us about planning enforcement

Tell us what has happened and share any letter or notice you have received. We can explain your options before you reply to the Council.

Email info@shapeplanning.co.uk (info null@null shapeplanning NULL.co NULL.uk) or use the form below. 

We send you a fee proposal before we start work, so you know where you stand on cost.