Prior Approval Reports
Class MA · Class Q · Class ZA & Other Permitted Development Rights
At SY Design Studio, we provide professional planning feasibility services to help homeowners, developers, and investors understand what can be built on a site before committing to full architectural drawings or construction costs. Our fixed-fee planning advice covers Permitted Development rights, planning policy constraints, and development potential, helping you avoid refusals, delays, and unnecessary expense.
Change use. Convert smarter. Reduce planning risk.
Prior Approval applications can unlock significant development value — but they are technical, policy-driven, and often refused due to missing or weak supporting information.
At SY Design Studio, we prepare clear, compliant Prior Approval Reports that address every required assessment under the relevant Class, giving your application the best possible chance of approval.
What is Prior Approval?
Prior Approval is a form of Permitted Development where full planning permission is not required, but the Local Planning Authority must approve specific matters before development can begin.
These matters often include:
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Transport & highways impact
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Flood risk
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Noise impact
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Natural light (mandatory for residential)
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Fire safety
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Design, layout & space standards
Missing or poorly explained information is one of the most common reasons for refusal.
Based in West London, we regularly advise clients across Hounslow, Ealing, Hillingdon, Richmond, Brent and surrounding areas. Our in-depth knowledge of local planning policies and council requirements allows us to provide clear, honest guidance tailored to each site.
Prior Approval Classes We Cover
Class MA – Commercial to Residential
Convert offices, shops, financial services, cafés or other commercial units into self-contained dwellings.
We assess and report on:
-Class MA eligibility & limitations
-Existing lawful use confirmation
-Natural light compliance
-Space standards & layout quality
-Transport, noise & amenity considerations
-Fire safety (where applicable)
Class Q – Agricultural to Residential
Convert agricultural buildings into dwellings without full planning permission.
We assess and report on:
-Agricultural use history
-Structural integrity principles
-Building size & conversion limits
-Design suitability for residential use
-Access, contamination & flooding
Class ZA – Demolition & New Build
Demolition of commercial buildings and replacement with new residential development (subject to limits).
We assess and report on:
-Eligibility and size thresholds
-Design, massing & layout
-Transport, highways & servicing
-Flood risk & environmental impacts
What’s Included in Our Prior Approval Report
✔ Full eligibility and compliance assessment
✔ Clear explanation of applicable PD Class
✔ Policy-led written report
✔ Identification of risks and constraints
✔ Recommendations to strengthen approval chances
✔ Coordination with drawings (if required)
Prepared specifically for your local authority and site conditions.
Fees and Turn around
Prior Approval Reports:
£450 – £950 (depending on class, size & complexity)
⏱ Typical turnaround: 3–5 working days
What’s Next?
Once planning permission or a Certificate of Lawful Development is secured, your project is ready to move to the next stage.
We can continue to support you with building regulations drawings, structural calculations, and ongoing design input throughout construction. Our team remains available to provide planning and design advice, helping ensure your project runs smoothly through to completion.
Spotlight On: House Extensions
Depending on the size, design, and materials used, a house extension may fall under permitted development or require full planning permission.
Our team can advise on the best route for your project and prepare the drawings needed to move forward with confidence.
Our other services
Your building control application is supported by a detailed set of building regulation drawings and technical construction details. These drawings demonstrate compliance with current Building Regulations and provide clear information for building control approval and construction.
Building Regulation Drawings
Our 3D realistic renders bring your project to life before construction begins. They provide a clear, accurate visual of the proposed design, helping you understand the layout, materials, and overall appearance while supporting design decisions and planning discussions.
3D Realistic Renders
