Pre-acquisition due diligence

Lemonplan provide advice on sites and existing buildings prior to purchase, allowing our clients to make informed decisions on opportunities to create value. We have particular expertise in deep-dive investigation and analysis of properties which, on first inspection, have an uncertain planning status.

Applications for planning permission

Lemonplan lead pre-application discussions with local planning authorities and prepare and submit applications,. We can also brief other consultants appointed to prepare reports for planning applications and oversee their work to ensure that it satisfies planning policy.

Applications for prior approval

Many changes of use and physical works do not require planning permission, but do require prior approval. Lemonplan can identify opportunities where prior approval is the best approach, and then prepare and submit applications.

Applications for lawful development certificate

Where a property owner requires formal confirmation of the lawful use of a property, or confirmation that a change of use or physical works would be lawful, Lemonplan can prepare and submit applications for lawful development certificates, seeking evidence to support the application where necessary.

Applications for discharge of conditions

Local planning authorities often impose conditions on planning permissions. Where these conditions need to be discharged before work can start or before a property can be occupied. Lemonplan can prepare and submit applications, working with specialist consultants where required.

Advice on asset management

Lemonplan can provide advice on the prospects for securing the necessary planning consents for change of use, extensions and other measures designed to optimise the value of existing land and buildings.

Instruction of counsel

As a chartered town planner, Lemonplan's director Richard Lemon has licensed access to the bar, allowing him to instruct specialist planning barristers where advice is required on matters of law. Richard has worked with a number of the country's leading planning barristers - both King's Counsel and junior counsel - in recent years.

Planning appeals

Where local planning authorities have refused applications for planning permission, prior approval or lawful development certificates, Lemonplan can prepare and submit appeals to the Planning Inspectorate, for determination through written representations, hearings or inquiries.

Trusted adviser

Where developers and investors require ad hoc or long-term advice on planning strategy, Lemonplan can act as a trusted adviser or retained consultant, either as sole consultant or working alongside an existing planning consultancy team.