KEEPING YOUR NEIGHBOURS SWEET

Navigating planning approval for an extension or self-build is likely to mean getting your neighbours onside. Here's how to build a harmonious relationship with them

- SIMON RIX

Whether you're planning a modest home extension or a new self-build dwelling, engaging with your neighbours is one of the most overlooked - yet potentially most impactful – parts of the planning process.

It's therefore important to understand how neighbour engagement fits into the planning system, why it matters even when it's not technically required, and how to approach it.

Here are the points I will cover:

• The influence neighbours can have on decision-makers.

• How to engage with neighbours before you submit an application.

• Specific strategies for Prior Approval extensions and full planning applications.

• The role of local councillors and planning committees.

No one wants planning stress to spill over into long-term personal tensions. If done well, early and open communication with neighbours can improve your chances of getting planning approval - and help protect your peace of mind long after the work has been done.

WHAT IMPACT CAN NEIGHBOURS HAVE?

Strictly speaking, neighbours don't have any special status in the planning system. Their objections - often heartfelt, sometimes fierce - don't carry any automatic weight. Planning is meant to be a public, policy-driven process, not a private popularity contest. So comments from neighbours are only considered relevant if they raise planning issues, such as overlooking, overshadowing, traffic or design. That said, neighbours can still influence the outcome of a planning application and in several indirect but meaningful ways.

First, planning officers are human. While they are trained to make objective decisions based on planning policy, a flurry of neighbour objections can force them to look harder at a proposal, especially where the policy situation is finely balanced. Strong local opposition can tip the scales against a marginal scheme - or persuade an officer to recommend refusal to avoid political fallout.