SHIEL ARCHITECTURE LTD

What is planning permission?

Planning permission is formal approval from your local planning authority to proceed with building works that fall outside standard allowances. It ensures that developments meet national guidelines and local policies around design, sustainability, impact on neighbours, and preservation of the local character.

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In Suffolk, planning decisions are typically handled by:

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• West Suffolk Council

• Mid Suffolk and Babergh District Council

• East Suffolk Council

• Ipswich Borough Council

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Each area has its own planning nuances, especially when it comes to listed buildings, Conservation Areas, and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty like Dedham Vale and the Suffolk Coast.

 

Do I need planning permission?

You may need planning permission if you are:

• Building a new home or dwelling

• Extending your property beyond permitted development rights

• Altering the appearance of your home (roofline, cladding, windows, etc.)

• Converting a non-residential structure, like a barn or outbuilding

• Developing near protected landscapes or listed structures

 

Some smaller home improvements fall under Permitted Development Rights, which allow you to build without full planning approval. However, there are specific size and location restrictions. In many parts of Suffolk — particularly rural and historic areas — Permitted Development Rights are limited or removed altogether through Article 4 Directions.

Top Tip: Always seek professional advice from a local architect in Suffolk to assess whether your plans require permission before starting any work.

 

How the planning process works

1. Feasibility & design

We begin with a detailed consultation and site assessment to understand your vision, identify constraints, and explore design possibilities that are most likely to gain approval.

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2. Pre-application advice (optional but wise)

This informal step allows early feedback from the planning officer, improving your chances of success and helping shape a more acceptable proposal.

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3. Full planning application

We prepare and submit all required documents, including:

• Scaled architectural drawings

• A Design & Access Statement

• Site location plans

• Heritage, ecology, or flood assessments (if required)

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4. Consultation period (approx. 8 weeks)

The council opens your application for public comments and internal review. Neighbours may be consulted, and planning officers assess it against local policies.

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5. Decision & Conditions

You’ll receive a decision notice with approval or refusal, sometimes with conditions (e.g. materials, landscaping). If refused, you can appeal or revise the design.

 

Why choose a local Suffolk architect?

Working with a trusted architect near you ensures:

• A design that complements Suffolk’s distinctive character

• Detailed knowledge of local planning policies

• Strong relationships with planning officers and conservation teams

• Reduced risk of costly delays or rejections

 

At Shiel Architecture, we have a deep understanding of Suffolk’s towns, villages, and rural planning context. We’re proud to help our clients navigate every stage of the process — from design through to construction — with clarity, creativity, and professionalism.

 

Ready to start your Suffolk project?

Whether you're extending your family home, converting a barn, or building from scratch, the right architectural partner makes all the difference. If you’re searching for an architect in Suffolk or wondering “do I need planning permission for this?” — we’re here to help.

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Get in touch with Shiel Architecture today to arrange your no-obligation consultation.