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Planning Delays
A spanner in the works...
Find out more and your options below.
We, like you, hate it when the best plans don't quite go to plan!
With local authorities being overwhelmed with the volumes of planning applications this is unfortunately causing lengthy delays across the UK with some local authorities coping better than others.
What is actually happening?..
Which areas are currently facing delays?
The majority of areas across the UK are experiencing some elements of delay with applications being processed and decision notices being produced.
Some local authorities have weathered the storm better than others with some experiencing minor delays of 2-3 weeks whilst others are experiencing major disruption of up to an additional 11 months.
What is the root cause of these delays?
The majority of delays has came from the huge volumes of applications being submitted to the local authority both during and after the pandemic.
This volume of applications has placed local authorities under lots of pressure which has lead to staff illness and absenteeism that is increasing lead times.
When additional information is requested the documents have to go through a similar process to reach the team involved in your planning application.
Updates on timescales?
Current lead times are varying hugely from area to area. Some local authorities are experiencing minor delays of 2-3 weeks, whilst others are reporting delays of 4 - 9 months to process applications.
What are local authorities doing about it?
Some local authorities are recruiting additional staff to help with the volumes of workloads other providers are gaining additional resources from the private sector including private planning consultants to help take the pressure off.
The Common Misconception
It is a common misconception that once an application has been submitted the decision lies with one single party to ultimately make that decision. When in fact lots of other parties are involved even for the smallest of extensions!
When delays are encountered it often ends up being a complete chain reaction.
Planners rely on other departments to assess and feedback comments on an application including conservation, heritage, ecology, town council and committees as well as other external resources.
When one or more of these are delayed it can have a huge impact on the speed at which applications are determined.
What is our plan of action?
ICI Architecture Studio has developed relationships with lots of local authorities across the UK and aim to work with them positively and proactively in order to reach a desired outcome.
We treat everyone with kindness and respect regardless of current circumstances.
We regularly assess cases to identify if their is any alternative solutions that would best meet our clients needs. This can include looking at prior notification applications, internal alterations that may meet out clients needs especially if time is of critical importance.
Do I need to do anything to try and speed things up?
The answer to that is no thank you,
ICI Architecture Studio has developed relationships with local authorities across the UK to try and reach positive outcomes for our clients even during challenging circumstances.
We continue to contact local authorities for updates so you don't have to. As you can appreciate this can sometimes take a while for us to get any information back due to the volume of applications submitted and other providers requesting updates as well. In turn, by leaving it to the agencies it reduces call volumes and resources for the local authorities and less hassle for you to deal with.
We feel this approach is more of a Win-Win situation for all parties involved.
Choosing the best route..
Sometimes its difficult to see the wood through the trees
We have selected a couple of options for you to consider
if your application is significantly delayed
Option 01
Passing your project through to the Planning Inspectorates
Planning Inspectorates are independent of the local authority.
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You can find out more information about this option in our guide at the bottom of this page.
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Option 03
Prior Notification Applications, Internal Alterations.
Other options can include changing the direction of your project (Subject to eligibility criteria).
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Including internal alterations or Prior Notification Applications.
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Prior Notification Applications:
These are not suitable for every scenario but if you have a great relationship with your neighbours they can be a great option. Although you are limited as to what you can and can't do.
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Find out more in our Frequently Asked Questions.
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Option 02
Raising your concerns with the Local Authority
Feedback allows improvements to be made to services although not instantly.
When raising your concerns it is important (as much as we appreciate how challenging this is) to not raise your temper or frustrations this can cause you with further delays and complications.
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Option 04
Future Predictions - Will the tide turn?
Whilst we can't predict the future, prices may start to become more stable or reset over the next 12 months especially if the markets reset.
Due to high levels of demand following the pandemic and inflationary pressures, this is all adding to price increases.
Our advice to you if you were to consider this option would be to allow the application to run its course and by which point the markets may return to some more normality.
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Which may offer you better value for money in the long run.
Did you know?
Once an application has been approved you have 3 years to make a start.
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Option 01
Who are they and how may they help?
Planning Inspectorates..
What is a planning Inspectorate?
The answer to that is no thank you,
ICI Architecture Studio has developed relationships with local authorities across the UK to try and reach positive outcomes for our clients even during challenging circumstances.
We continue to contact local authorities for updates so you don't have to. As you can appreciate this can sometimes take a while for us to get any information back due to the volume of applications submitted and other providers requesting updates as well. In turn, by leaving it to the agencies it reduces call volumes and resources for the local authorities, less hassle for you to deal with.
We feel this approach is more of a Win-Win situation for all parties involved.
What is the process involved?
The answer to that is no thank you,
ICI Architecture Studio has developed relationships with local authorities across the UK to try and reach positive outcomes for our clients even during challenging circumstances.
We continue to contact local authorities for updates so you don't have to. As you can appreciate this can sometimes take a while for us to get any information back due to the volume of applications submitted and other providers requesting updates as well. In turn, by leaving it to the agencies it reduces call volumes and resources for the local authorities, less hassle for you to deal with.
We feel this approach is more of a Win-Win situation for all parties involved.
Would like to proceed with or find out more on the Planning Inspectorates route?
Get in touch via Email: Team@iciarchitecture.co.uk
Due to high levels of demand for our services it may take 48-72hrs for us to get back to you.
Option 02
How to raise your concerns with the Local Authority?
Discussing Feedback..
We, like you, hate it when the best plans don't quite go to plan!
With local authorities being overwhelmed with the volumes of planning applications this is unfortunately causing lengthy delays across the UK with some local authorities coping better than others.
Tip 01
How to raise feedback without affecting the outcome of your planning application?
At ICI Architecture Studio we listen to all feedback and in fact some of our services are built on the basis of that feedback.
We understand hugely how frustrating delays are for both clients and for us as agents.
When raising feedback it is important to not raise your temper as this can hinder your planning application and the outcome of it including delays, refusal as well as the local authority taking action against you.
Local Authorities the same with ICI Architecture Studio will always take swift action against those that demonstrate verbal aggression or threats regardless of the circumstances.
We regularly report back to local authorities with feedback to help improve their services so if you wish to not approach them directly you can forward your comments over to us and we can pass them to the local authority on your behalf.
Tip 02
The complexities behind the planning system.
It is important to take into account when raising feedback with the local authority that planning systems are a lot more complex that what people usually think!
It is a common misconception that once an application has been submitted the decision lies with one single party to ultimately make that decision.
When in fact lots of other parties are involved even for the smallest of extensions!
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Members of the Public from Consultations.
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Highways
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Ecology & Conservation Officers
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Town Council and Committee Reviews
Option 03
A change of Direction, Internal Alterations
Prior Notification Applications
Do I need to do anything to try and speed things up?
The answer to that is no thank you,
ICI Architecture Studio has developed relationships with local authorities across the UK to try and reach positive outcomes for our clients even during challenging circumstances.
We continue to contact local authorities for updates so you don't have to. As you can appreciate this can sometimes take a while for us to get any information back due to the volume of applications submitted and other providers requesting updates as well. In turn, by leaving it to the agencies it reduces call volumes and resources for the local authorities, less hassle for you to deal with.
We feel this approach is more of a Win-Win situation for all parties involved.
Do I need to do anything to try and speed things up?
The answer to that is no thank you,
ICI Architecture Studio has developed relationships with local authorities across the UK to try and reach positive outcomes for our clients even during challenging circumstances.
We continue to contact local authorities for updates so you don't have to. As you can appreciate this can sometimes take a while for us to get any information back due to the volume of applications submitted and other providers requesting updates as well. In turn, by leaving it to the agencies it reduces call volumes and resources for the local authorities, less hassle for you to deal with.
We feel this approach is more of a Win-Win situation for all parties involved.
Option 04
Future Predictions
Will the tide turn?
Do I need to do anything to try and speed things up?
The answer to that is no thank you,
ICI Architecture Studio has developed relationships with local authorities across the UK to try and reach positive outcomes for our clients even during challenging circumstances.
We continue to contact local authorities for updates so you don't have to. As you can appreciate this can sometimes take a while for us to get any information back due to the volume of applications submitted and other providers requesting updates as well. In turn, by leaving it to the agencies it reduces call volumes and resources for the local authorities, less hassle for you to deal with.
We feel this approach is more of a Win-Win situation for all parties involved.
Do I need to do anything to try and speed things up?
The answer to that is no thank you,
ICI Architecture Studio has developed relationships with local authorities across the UK to try and reach positive outcomes for our clients even during challenging circumstances.
We continue to contact local authorities for updates so you don't have to. As you can appreciate this can sometimes take a while for us to get any information back due to the volume of applications submitted and other providers requesting updates as well. In turn, by leaving it to the agencies it reduces call volumes and resources for the local authorities, less hassle for you to deal with.
We feel this approach is more of a Win-Win situation for all parties involved.
Keeping you up to date
We will notify you with updates regarding your application as soon as we receive updates from the local authority involved in your project.
Get in touch via Email: Team@iciarchitecture.co.uk
Due to high levels of demand for our services it may take 48-72hrs for us to get back to you.
Supporting You..
How can we help?
Find out more and your options below.
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Which areas do you cover?ICI Architecture Studio delivers architectural services across the UK and international. We have projects as far as Mustique Island as well as the Middle East!
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How many design changes are included?Our freedom to be flexible approach allows you to make any changes and explore multiple options! Once you are completely happy we will prepare and submit your planning application on your behalf! You can accesss the virtual reality of your proposals 24 hrs a day and no software required!
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I have an idea but not sure how or where to get started?Dont worry you are not alone! Lots of our clients approach us with either an idea or a list of things they dont like about their current house or space! During our free initial consultation we discuss your ideas, share ideas and start to develop a brief to solve your problems!
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Do we charge extra for Virtual Reality?No! At ICI Architecture Studio we are deliberately different in everyway! All of our proposals are designed in 3D using VR to ensure that we bring your vision to life! We like to call it see it, experience it before you get started! Need to make a slight adjustment? no problem our freedom to be flexible approach allows you to make any adjustments required!
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Do we need to pay for any specialist software?Absoluteley No! ICI Development Group will priovide you with access to all the tools you need at no extra cost! You can view our 3D models in the office or the comfort of your own home without having to pay the expensive software fees!
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Do you charge for initial consultations?All of our initial consultations are FREE of charge with no obligation to use our services. Our intitial consultations are designed to be a fact finding session. We will discuss and formalise a project brief and advise on the appropriate route for your project. We will identify any particular styles or requirements that you are looking for. We will answer any questions you may have!
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What other professionals may I need?Every project is completelty different but during our initial consultation we will advise you further. Typical additional professionals include Structural Engineers etc.
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Is ICI Architecture Studio regulated?ICI Architecture Studio is regulated by our awarding body CIAT (Chartered Institute Architectural Technologists) as well as the Good Business Charter, demonstrating our commitment to providing exceptional service for all of our clients.
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What happens during the initial consultation?Our initial consultations are completely free of charge and is an opportunity to discuss your ideas and how we can help turn your vision into reality. Our sessions are impartial and we will always provide you with factual advice and what our recommendations would be to allow you to make your own informed decisions. We would ask you to provide copies of any title deeds connected with the property or land for us to review.
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How do we calculate our fees?At ICI Architecture Studio our fees are very competitively priced and provide exceptional value for money. We offer our best rate guarantee - meaning that you will always get our fees at the best possible rates in comparison to our comparison sites. We understand fees are important for our clients and pride ourselves on being open and transparent with us all of our fees are fixed meaning the price that you are quoted is the price you will pay no extra fees or hidden costs!
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What is my role in the design process?At ICI Architecture Studio we work closely with you to ensure that your vision is turned into reality. Our clients have complete flexibility as to how much involvement they would like to be with the process - some have mood boards already prepared others simply need a helping hand on how to address their issues. We have a range of different methods such as Pinterest boards to share your ideas!
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We are looking to purchase a listed building can we help?The short answer -Yes! We also have a number of articles that explains the process with listed buildings and conservation areas!
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How to find our new offices?From the 1st March 2024 our new offices are located at Alderley Park. To find out more select New Office on the top of our web page. Still need assistance? Please call 01260 602 005.
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How do I check the progress of a planning application?To check the progress of a planning application please visit the local authorities website and select planning. Please enter the reference number on your confirmation letter from us. The status of your planning application will then be displayed. Any questions or querys please email team@iciarchitecture.co.uk
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What is the current timescales for a planning application to be processed?Local Authorities across the UK are experiencing siginifcant delays with processing planning applications with some local authorities reporting delays of over 12 weeks minimum for a decision to be made. At ICI Architecture Studio we deliver projects across the UK and internationally as well. Rest assured each day we are in contact with local authorities requesting for planning updates for our clients so you don't have to chase. We will provide you with updates as soon as we recieve updates from a local authority.
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What happens if my planning application is refused?Every effort is made to try and secure a positive outcome however this can never be guaranteed! Unfortunately no Architectural provider can guarantee planning consent! If the worst is to happen we do have a couple of options: 1) Withdraw an application and resubmit - Free of charge. 2) Appeal a planning application through the planning inspectorates
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What payment methods do you accept?We accept BAC's transfer, all major credit and debit cards including Amex.
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Why do we carry out credit checks?ICI Architecture Studio trading name of ICI Development Group undertakes credit checks to verify clients details to ensure that the information that we are provided with is accurate and correct. We may use this information to prevent fraud, money laundering, managing credit and credit related accounts and facilities and recovering debt. We will check your details with fraud detection agencies and if false or inaccurate information is provded and fraud is identified, details will be passed to fraud prevention agencies.
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What is your payment terms?All invoices are to be settled within 14 days of issue not reciept. Please note we are unable to process any planning applications, building regulations applications until outstanding accounts are paid in full. A full copy of our terms of service and payments & collection policy is displayed on our 'legal stuff' section at the bottom of the page.
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What happens if our accounts are overdue?ICI Development Group will provide a reminder before the due date of any invoices and in the rare event that an account is overdue. Please note in accordance with our terms of service we will charge interest and late payment surcharges on any overdue accounts. Interest is charged on a daily rate until the full balance has been paid in full. Accounts that are overdue by 30 days will be automatically passed to debt collection services for processing and any additional surcharges will be applied by the collections provider. www.iciarchitecture.co.uk/thelegalstuff
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Can you share our data with Collection Agencies?In accordance with our Terms of Service, any invoices that are overdue are automatically forwarded to our collection partners for recovery. Our partners work in line with industry guidance protocols and will work with you to agree on a solution. It is important that you engage with them regularly as this can impact on your credit score which stays on your file for 6 years. This may affect your availability for financial products and services including Mortgages, loans and credit applications. In extreme circumstances, our partners can process CCJ applications to recover outstanding debt. All of our costs for debt recovery processes and procedures are added to any outstanding debt regardless of the balance that is due.
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Why do we charge a 1.5% Credit & Debit Card processing Fee?We introduced the 1.5% processing fee in April 2023 due to regular increases in processing fees charged by the card providers. Increases in payment Options: We continue to offer a wide range of payment methods including accepting all major credit and debit cards including premium cards such Amex, Reward Credit Cards including Sainsburys, John Lewis and Waitrose. Free of Surcharges Option - We accept both BACS and international payments and transfers.
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What are the associated fees we charge for late payments?For invoices that are processed with our collection partners from SAS Daniels or Darcey & Quigley further associated fees will be incurred. Please note ICI Development Group charges interest and late payment surcharges on any overdue accounts. 'Should it become necessary for us to appoint Solicitors and/or debt recovery agents to recover any unpaid invoices, you will be liable to pay all costs, fees, disbursements and any other charges including legal fees and costs reasonably incurred by us during the recovery process for any unpaid invoices, regardless of the amount of our claim.' We will charge up to £300.00 for the initial notice served by our solicitors which will be credited to your account. Where outstanding invoices are forwarded to County Courts or for Statutory Demand Applications our fees range from £140.00 - £555.00. For invoices in excess of £10,000 we will charge 5% of the value of the claim. Interest: We charge a statutory rate in line with UK regulations at 8% plus the Bank of England Base Rate.
Keeping you up to date
We will notify you with updates regarding your application as soon as we receive updates from the local authority involved in your project.
Get in touch via Email: Team@iciarchitecture.co.uk
Due to high levels of demand for our services it may take 48-72hrs for us to get back to you.
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01260 602 005
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