Enforcement Notices + Planning Appeals

Enforcement Notices + Planning Appeals What They Are & How We Can Help

Act quickly and professionally if you receive an enforcement notice.

An enforcement notice is issued by a Local Planning Authority (LPA) when it believes there has been a breach of planning control — for example, building something without the correct permission. The notice sets out what the authority thinks has happened and what steps are required to remedy it.

Ignoring an enforcement notice will only make the situation worse, so acting promptly and with the right support is essential.

How ES Architecture Can Help

We understand the urgency and technical detail involved in responding to enforcement notices. Our support typically includes:

Fast, accurate redraws of existing buildings to show what has been built
Clear documentation showing how development differs from planning permissions
Supporting evidence and statements to be submitted within the notice deadline
Advice on practical and creative changes that might help address the council’s concerns

We often work to tight deadlines when enforcement notices are issued, to meet the requirements of the planning authority.

What to Expect from the Process

An enforcement notice will explain what the council believes is a breach and the required steps.
There is usually a set effective date by which you must comply or appeal.
We can help prepare and submit the required drawings and evidence to show the situation accurately.

While we cannot guarantee a positive outcome, having accurate drawings, a clear explanation, and well‑considered proposals increases your chances of resolving the notice or putting forward a better case with the council.

Key Advice

Do not ignore an enforcement notice — acting early gives you the best chance of managing the situation and avoiding escalation.

Professional, accurate documentation and a well‑presented case can make a real difference in how councils deal with enforcement issues.

Planning Appeals — Understanding the Process & How We Can Help

If your planning application is refused, an appeal can be a route to reconsideration.

A planning appeal is made to the Planning Inspectorate, and it gives you a chance to argue why planning permission should be granted despite the planning authorities refusal. There are also specific routes for appealing enforcement notices, which must usually be submitted before the notice takes effect.

What Happens in a Planning Appeal

There are various procedures for appeals, including:

Written representations – submitting a case in writing
Hearings – informal discussions with a Planning Inspector
Public inquiries – more formal sessions where evidence is presented by both sides

The appeal process follows strict rules and timetables set by the Planning Inspectorate.

How ES Architecture Advises on Planning Appeals

While we have undertaken planning appeals ourselves in some cases, in most situations we feel your money is best spent with a specialist planning consultant who can:

Provide a fresh, independent perspective on the design and planning issues
Assess the likelihood of success based on local policy and recent decisions
Prepare and submit professional appeal documentation

This specialist support can be especially valuable when an appeal requires detailed justification against specific planning policies.

We can still provide advice on whether an appeal is worth pursuing and help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of your case.

What an Appeal Involves - Key Points

You must submit an appeal within the deadlines — for enforcement notice appeals, this is usually before the notice takes effect.
You need to provide supporting documents including plans, evidence, and your grounds for appeal.
The process takes time and must adhere to formal procedures set out by the Planning Inspectorate.

Why This Matters

Planning appeals can be complex and time‑consuming, and the merits of an appeal vary greatly from case to case. Early review and thoughtful preparation improve your chances of success, while specialist advice gives you the best chance of making a compelling case.

Working With ES Architecture on an Enforcement Notice or an Appeal

Whether it’s an enforcement notice or a planning appeal, we can:

Advise you on your options and likely outcomes
Prepare and deliver accurate drawings and evidence
Suggest design adjustments or strategies to support your case
Help you understand where specialist planning consultants may add value

If you need help with an enforcement notice or planning appeal, the sooner you act, the better your chances of a favourable outcome.