FAQs
A planning solicitor can help if you are in dispute with your local authority about a planning issue.
You may also need specialist planning law advice if you want to object to a neighbour’s development, challenge a planning decision that affects you, or respond to a planning enforcement notice or planning contravention notice.
In each case, a planning solicitor can assess your position, explain the relevant planning law, and advise on the most effective and proportionate next steps, whether that involves negotiation, appeal or formal legal challenge.
We offer a FREE 15-minute introductory meeting so we can get to know each other and explore how we can work together.
We are clear and upfront about costs, so there are no surprises later.
Depending on the nature and scope of the work, fees may be structured as a fixed fee for a specific piece of work, an hourly rate, or a retainer where the matter is likely to require ongoing advice or longer-term involvement.
Fortune Green Legal Practice does not usually prepare or submit planning applications. Planning consultants are typically better placed to manage the planning application process, carry out site visits, liaise with the local planning authority and advise on how to maximise development potential.
Architects can also assist with design concepts, technical drawings and ensuring proposals align with planning policy and local development frameworks. Where legal issues arise, such as objections, appeals or enforcement action, we can then step in to provide specialist planning law advice alongside your consultant or architect.
We work with a trusted network of planning consultants and architects and are happy to make introductions.
Timeframes for planning matters vary considerably. Some issues can be resolved within a few weeks, while more complex planning disputes, appeals or enforcement cases may take several months or longer. Local authority response times differ, and delays are not uncommon within the planning system.
We take a proactive approach to ensure your matter remains firmly on the Council’s radar. In many cases, a focused letter or well-timed call from an experienced planning solicitor can prompt meaningful movement and help avoid unnecessary delay.
If you have received a court summons relating to a planning matter, you should seek legal advice without delay. Contact us as soon as possible and provide details of your court date and any relevant documentation.
We can offer initial advice on your position, outline your available options and, where appropriate, refer you to specialist planning barristers who have the relevant court experience to ensure you are properly represented.
A Judicial Review is a legal process used to challenge the lawfulness of a decision made by a public body, such as a local council. It does not decide whether the decision was “right” or “wrong” on its merits. Instead, the court looks at whether the correct legal process was followed, relevant matters were properly considered, and the decision was made fairly and within the public body’s powers. Judicial Review is commonly used in planning cases and must be started within strict time limits.
You can read more on our Judicial Review page here.
The duration of a Judicial Review varies and is largely dependent on court timetabling and judicial availability.
Some cases are resolved quickly, while others take longer to conclude. Costs can vary, but there are fixed court fees and, in many planning cases involving environmental issues, a costs cap may apply. This can limit the amount a claimant may be required to pay if the claim is unsuccessful.
Legal costs should be considered carefully at the outset, and claimants are advised to obtain specialist advice before proceeding.
You can read more on our Judicial Review page here.
A council’s decision to grant planning permission can only be challenged by way of Judicial Review in the Planning Court, which forms part of the High Court. This type of challenge does not reconsider the planning merits of the development. Instead, it examines whether the council acted lawfully and followed the correct process when making its decision. Any claim must be issued within six weeks of the planning decision being formally published.
You can read more on our Planning Appeals page here.
A Section 106 agreement (often called a “planning obligation”) is a legal agreement between a developer and the local planning authority. It is used to make a development acceptable in planning terms by requiring the developer to provide specific contributions or actions.
These may include funding for local infrastructure, affordable housing, highways works, open space, or other measures needed to reduce the impact of the development on the local area.
You can read more on our Section 106 page here.
Section 106 agreements are not normally open to direct challenge by members of the public.
However, they can be challenged indirectly if there are legal grounds to argue that the agreement, or the way it was secured, was unlawful — usually as part of a Judicial Review of the planning permission itself.
Any challenge must be made within strict time limits, and specialist legal advice should be sought at an early stage.
You can read more on our Section 106 page here.
Yes. Although we are based in central London, around half of our cases involve properties outside London. We advise clients across England.
Planning law in Scotland and Wales differs due to devolved government. If your property is located there, we can recommend experienced lawyers who practise in those jurisdictions.
