Town planning for public-facing commercial development
Planware Ltd provides clear, pragmatic town planning advice for clients operating in all sectors across the UK. This includes specialist experience in retail-led development, focusing on both town centre and out-of-centre proposals.
Discuss a projectDevelopment control
We assist with all stages of development control, from initial site appraisals and planning histories through to the submission and management of planning applications and appeals.
View details
Site appraisals
Early, objective assessment of planning risk and opportunity to inform site acquisition, leasing and investment decisions.
Planning applications
Preparation, coordination and submission of planning applications, including negotiation with local planning authorities and consultees.
Appeals
Robust appeal statements and representation at hearings and inquiries where appropriate.
Specialists in restaurants, entertainment and leisure
Our practice has particular experience advising operators in the restaurant, entertainment and wider leisure sectors, where planning decisions are closely linked to operational requirements and brand identity.
View details
We understand the planning implications of extended opening hours, outside seating, delivery and takeaway operations, and the interface with licensing and environmental health regimes.
This sector focus allows us to provide concise, commercially aware advice that supports timely decision-making.
Re-branding and re-image programmes
We support national and regional re-branding and re-image programmes, aligning planning strategies with phased roll-outs and operational priorities.
View details
Our work typically includes:
- Reviewing existing permissions and conditions.
- Advising on the extent of change that falls within permitted development.
- Coordinating applications where consent is required.
- Liaising with local planning authorities to address design and heritage matters.
We work constructively with officers to achieve timely outcomes and avoid unnecessary delay.
Advertisements and express consent
We provide clear guidance on advertisement regulations, identifying where signage and branding fall within deemed consent and where express consent is required.
View details
Our services include:
- Auditing existing and proposed signage strategies.
- Preparing advertisement consent applications and supporting statements.
- Addressing heritage, conservation area and amenity considerations.
Adaptive team working nationally
Based in Bury St Edmunds and working nationally across the UK, Planware Ltd adapts to the needs of each client and project, assembling the right mix of planning expertise and technical input.
View details
We work with architects, designers, ecologists, highways consultants and other specialists to provide coordinated, grounded planning advice. Our approach is to keep communication clear, documentation concise and programmes realistic.
Working with specialist teams
We have established working relationships with a wide range of professional advisers across the UK, including architects, designers, ecologists, highways consultants, environmental specialists and planning barristers.
View details
This allows us to assemble proportionate, project-specific teams where specialist input is required, ensuring that technical advice is well-coordinated, focused on the key planning issues and aligned with programme and cost considerations.
Discuss a project