Planning

The McGrigors Planning Team provides advice throughout the UK on all aspects of the planning process, including the highways issues associated with development and compulsory purchase. This includes steering a course through the political as well as the legal aspects of the planning process.

 

The various planning systems in the UK have recently undergone, or are currently undergoing, significant reform. The new systems create challenges and those with an interest in new development need to ensure that they are aware of the implications of these changes.

 

Our experience of the various planning systems across the constituent parts of the UK – England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland - and the problems and pitfalls that clients face in each, makes us well placed to assist with strategic development and planning decisions whatever the jurisdiction.

 

We offer pragmatic and knowledgeable advice; a seamless approach from initial strategic advice to appeals; unrivalled levels of technical knowledge in complex specialist areas and many years experience of the problems and challenges which can arise – and thus how to avoid them. In all our dealings we seek to provide our clients with a clear analysis of the issues and the options so that the right decision is taken at the right time.

 

The team is experienced, respected and technically excellent. It includes recognised experts in their fields and is unique in its breadth of expertise and UK reach. We have experience of planning across a range of development types and industries including renewables, minerals, retail, housebuilding, regeneration schemes and commercial development generally.
 

Our service includes: 

  • advising on the requirement for planning permission and the interpretation of permissions and their conditions
  • advice on the nature and scope of consents required and legal review of application documents, including Environmental Statements
  • representation before planning committees and at public hearings
  • appeals against refusal of planning permission both written submission and inquiry
  • representation and advocacy at planning inquiries of all kinds and court litigation (including Judicial Review) throughout the UK before Courts at all levels for developers and objectors
  • negotiation and drafting of Planning and Highways Agreements acting usually for developers although in some cases acting for the relevant local authority or department
  • advice in connection with Compulsory Purchase Orders
  • local plan allocations
  • planning objections
  • defending against enforcement action by local authorities or department