PLANNING CLINIC
As a planning consultant, I’m often asked by my clients to ‘translate’ much of the language used in the UK’s planning system into plain English. Much of the jargon can seem impenetrable at first, but understanding the language of planning a bit better can empower you to navigate the path to success. In this guide I’ll unravel the phrases – some obscure – that you might encounter on your planning journey.
ORGANISATIONS
Local planning authority (LPA) This is the most crucial organisation during a planning application. It’s usually your local district, borough or unitary council responsible for making decisions on planning applications. They’ll assess your proposal, consult with others, and ultimately grant or deny permission. If your site is in a National Park, the National Park Authority is your LPA, not your local council.
These are smaller, more local councils covering many towns and rural areas. While they don’t have the final say, they can
