The more planning we do, the more chance we have of getting the project through to a successful completion.

Once we have identified a suitable plot of land the first stage to agree a deal in principal subject to planning. We will then hope to obtain Outline Planning Permission (OPP) this is simply permission for the principle of development on a site. This means that the details of the size, dimensions, materials and access can then be agreed in detail before we make an application for full planning permission as no building work can be undertaken on OPP alone. OPP status is usually valid for three years at which point reapplication will need to be made.

We will work closely with our nominated architect to turn our rough plans into proper working drawings. And keep you informed as the process develops.

We liaise with the local authorities and deal with any objections or covenants they may have in order to obtain detailed planning permission and building regulation approvals. We pay all the fees and costs involved so there is no financial contribution from you at all. They may send out an inspector to view the plot to assess the suitability as well as release details of the application so that objections can be lodged. Planning charges and the separate building inspection charges are all covered by us.  The application is then uploaded to the Planning Portal website. The council should decide most application within 8 - 12 weeks.

Detailed Planning Permission/Full Planning Permission (FPP)outlines exactly what is going to be built including dimensions, room layouts and building materials. As soon as FPP is granted we will then liaise with you to set a date for building work to commence. Sometimes conditions of approval will be attached, and these must be complied with during the project. Detailed planning permission is valid for three years.

We have all the necessary insurance in place including 10 million public liability and fbuilding materials insurace etc. We also deal with a network of providers and organisations like IWC and NHBC who offer insurance backed warranties on the completed developments. See  http://www.nhbc.co.uk/ for examples of this.

Unlike building regulations, the application of planning permission differs significantly from area to area owing to differing local development plans, local interpretation of the regulations and the significant degree of subjectivity involved in the process.

In most instances a simple planning application never goes to a planning committee and instead is decided at officer level. This is followed by a period of public consultation about the application. The extent of this will depend on the impact of the development and the type of area but it will always include local neighbours. This process normally lasts 4 weeks.

Once the LA has received all the necessary responses, the Planning Officer will assess the proposal against the LA planning policies. The Planning Officer will then make a decision regarding the application or a recommendation for the planning committee.

On occasions when an application is refused we may need to appeal, this process can take up to 6 month to be put before a committee and we may need to submit an amended proposal or just appeal against the decision.

 

Green Developments

At Platinum Build & Developments we are committed to sustainability and one way to reduce the impact of develpoments on the environment is to look in to contruction methods that are kinder on our planet. Timber frame homes and extensions are increasingly more and more popular with self-builders, construction companies and developers for both residential and commercial properties. Timber frame boasts quality in off-site fabrication and speed of assembly on site, all whilst reducing the on-site build costs and time.

The reasoning for the popularity of using timber frame over other construction methods is clear to see;

Versatility of design –

Huge variety of designs from traditional to ultra-contemporary are available. Timber frame lends itself well to spacious open plan design. Timber beams can be left exposed for special features and traditional character, as required. Bespoke U-values may also be specified to suit your own usage. Their light-weight structures and flexible design features allow them to suit any extension project, whether it be a new first, second or even third floor, or a simple single storey ground floor extension.

Speed of construction –

Speedy off-site manufacturing within a controlled factory environment reduces the risk of delay due to bad weather and the reliance on individuals associated with on-site construction methods. The long drying out period associated with ‘wet’ construction is reduced considerably. In a matter of days from the panels, floor joists and roof trusses arriving on site, the structure will be complete and ready for external finishes.

Thermally efficient and environmentally friendly –

Timber frame pre-fabricated panels are built to high standards of thermal insulation and air tightness achieving very low U Values as well as further reducing cold bridging if specification dictated. The whole structure requires less energy and is therefore cheaper to run. All the timber used in our structures are from FSC certified (fsc-uk.org/en-uk) sources meaning it is carbon neutral and a sustainable resource. Vision are also PEFC certified (pefc.org) meaning timber frame is by far the most eco-friendly construction method.

Reduces overall build costs –

Using timber frame for your construction will mean for easy and accurate project budgeting. Factory fabrication enables costs to be controlled and fixed which in turn permits fixed prices with no hidden surprises or extras as the construction progresses. Due to the accurate timescales for manufacture and delivery, trades following the timber frame structure can be booked in to follow in close succession and even internal works can commence whilst external finish (whether