Planning Consent and the Local Authority
It is the building owner's or the contractor's responsibility to ensure that the necessary consent is obtained from the local planning authority. Under planning law, the local authority has the power to prosecute those carrying out building work without obtaining consent. A prosecution is not particularly common, but planning disputes often occur when the authority fails to grant planning permission or grants it with unfavourable conditions.
Disputes also arise between homeowners in various other circumstances, most of which can be solved amicably without locking horns. If not, the resolution needs to be handled with sensitivity at all times.
Advice for Owners and Developers
We are experienced in the complexities of planning disputes, providing valuable advice to our clients, be it adjoining owners, building owners or developers. We have years of experience in party wall disputes and negotiations, particularly in London.
We provide pragmatic advice on listed building consents and appeals, at both informal and formal hearings. We strive to provide you with the outcome you are seeking for your project.
Planning Applications
We prepare planning drawings and planning applications for residential and commercial projects.
Listed Building Consent
Where a listed building is involved, we prepare the drawings and the application for listed building consent.
Party Wall Matters
Party wall matters also form part of William Bates's expert witness work in construction disputes.
Formal and Informal Hearings
We have experience of formal and informal hearings and mediations.
RIBA Chartered Architect
William Bates is a RIBA Chartered Architect, registered with the ARB, with 40 years of experience in practice.
Expert Witness Since 1992
William Bates has acted as an expert witness in construction disputes since 1992, with work across England and Wales.
Expert Witness and Dispute Experience
William Bates is a member of The Academy of Experts, The Society of Expert Witnesses and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, and appears on the RIBA list of architect expert witnesses.
Where a dispute goes further, he can act as a party expert or single joint expert, and he has High Court (Technology and Construction Court) experience.
Discuss Your Planning Dispute
Our planning dispute advice services are available throughout Sussex, Kent, Surrey and London. To talk through a planning refusal, unfavourable conditions or a party wall disagreement, call Architect Heathfield on 01435 812973 and we will explain how we can help with your project.
Residential Architecture
New homes, extensions, conversions and renovations, designed around the way you live.
Commercial Architecture
Retail, commercial, leisure and public buildings, from first ideas to completion.
Expert Witness Reports
Independent expert reports on building disputes, particularly alleged professional negligence.