Planning Appraisals
Before committing time and resources to a project, it’s essential to understand its planning potential. AWP offers professional planning appraisals across Devon and the South West, giving you clear, strategic insight to guide your decisions from the start.
Planning Appraisal Advisor in the South West
A planning appraisal is an early-stage assessment of how likely a proposed development is to gain planning permission. At AWP, we carry out detailed planning appraisals that examine the relevant planning policies, site constraints, local authority guidance, and the wider planning context. Whether you’re purchasing land, exploring development options, or preparing a formal application, a well-informed appraisal helps you minimise risk and plan effectively. With Angharad’s experience in both public and private sectors, you’ll receive honest, tailored advice to help you make confident, informed choices about your site.
Why Choose AWP
Chartered Professional
Led by Angharad Williams, a Chartered Town Planner with over a decade of experience in both public and private sectors, you’ll receive expert, reliable, and honest advice.
Local Expertise
AWP understands Devon and the South West inside out. With strong relationships across local authorities, we know how to navigate local planning policies effectively.
Personal, Dedicated Service
At AWP, you work directly with Angharad—not a large team or call centre. Every project gets the tailored, one-to-one support it deserves.
Proven Track Record
Award-nominated leadership, successful applications, and Local Authority trust. AWP is known for making planning clearer, simpler, and more successful for clients.
Inclusive Design Expertise
AWP is committed to creating well-designed, accessible places for everyone, with specialist knowledge in inclusive and dementia-friendly design.
Planning Appraisal FAQs
What is a plan appraisal?
A plan appraisal is a professional assessment of how a specific development proposal aligns with planning policy. It considers whether a project is likely to be supported by the local planning authority and highlights any key risks or policy issues. This type of appraisal is often used to inform investment decisions or to shape proposals before submitting a formal application.
What is the main purpose of an appraisal?
The main purpose of a planning appraisal is to reduce uncertainty and help you make informed decisions. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of a proposal early on, you can adapt your plans, avoid unnecessary costs, and approach the planning process with a clear, strategic mindset.
What is the planning appraisal process?
The planning appraisal process involves a thorough review of a site’s planning history, current use, and the relevant national and local policies that affect it. This includes assessing constraints like conservation areas, flood zones, and protected landscapes, as well as potential planning opportunities. The outcome is a clear, evidence-based report that outlines the likelihood of securing permission and provides a strategy for moving forward.
How do you write a planning appraisal?
A planning appraisal should include a site description, planning history, a review of relevant policies, identification of constraints and opportunities, and a professional judgement on the proposal’s likely success. While some information can be gathered independently, a qualified planning consultant is best placed to produce a detailed, policy-informed appraisal that supports your goals.
