Planning & Development Consultancy in Sussex

In many cases, yes. A planning consultant can significantly improve the likelihood of securing permission by identifying constraints early and shaping proposals in line with local policy.

For developers and landowners, the value often comes from avoiding costly mistakes, improving site positioning, and ensuring schemes remain viable as well as compliant.

Oakley combines planning expertise with commercial insight to ensure proposals are both achievable and financially deliverable.

As early as possible. Engaging a planning consultant at the feasibility stage allows constraints, risks, and opportunities to be identified before significant costs are committed.

Early advice can shape site strategy, inform land value, and ensure proposals align with local planning policy from the outset.

Planning timelines vary depending on the scale and complexity of the development and the local authority involved. Smaller applications may take a few months, while larger or more complex schemes can take significantly longer.

Oakley provides realistic guidance on timeframes and develops strategies designed to minimise delays and manage risk.

Planning consultancy fees vary depending on the scale and complexity of a project. Smaller advisory roles may involve a short consultation, while larger development strategies or planning applications require more detailed analysis and ongoing support.

Oakley provides clear, tailored proposals based on the scope of work required, ensuring clients receive the right level of expertise for their project.

Yes. A well-structured planning strategy can significantly enhance land value by identifying the most viable development scenario and positioning the site effectively within the planning framework.

Oakley’s advice combines planning policy expertise with commercial insight to ensure strategies support long-term value.

A refusal does not necessarily mean a development cannot proceed. In many cases, schemes can be revised or appealed.

Oakley works with planning consultants, legal advisers, and technical specialists to assess the reasons for refusal and determine the most effective route forward, whether through redesign, negotiation, or formal appeal.

Yes. Oakley advises a wide range of clients including private landowners, family trusts, developers, investors, and public bodies.

Whether assessing the potential of a single site or shaping strategy for a multi-phase development, our approach combines planning knowledge with commercial understanding to provide clear, practical guidance.

Planning strategy and financial viability are closely linked. Viability assessments help determine whether planning obligations such as affordable housing or infrastructure contributions are commercially realistic.

Oakley integrates planning consultancy with viability analysis to ensure schemes remain deliverable while meeting policy expectations.

For many sites, professional planning advice can significantly improve outcomes. A planning consultant can assess policy constraints, guide pre-application discussions with local authorities, and develop strategies that maximise development potential.

Oakley regularly advises landowners and developers across Sussex on how to position sites for planning success while protecting commercial viability.

The four-year rule relates to lawful development. In certain circumstances, if a building or change of use has existed continuously for four years without enforcement action, it may become lawful through a Certificate of Lawfulness.

Planning law can be complex and every case is different. Oakley advises landowners and developers on whether the rule applies and how to approach lawful development applications.