Planning route finder
Should you use PiP, outline or full planning?
Answer five questions and get a practical next step. The goal is not to over-prove the site too early, but to spend just enough to reduce the real risk.
Recommended route
Permission in Principle
Fastest route to test whether housing is acceptable in principle.
Route
Permission in Principle
Likely timing
5-8 weeks after submission
Budget level
Lower upfront cost
Why this route fits
Best for 1-9 homes where the main question is location, land use and amount of development.
Confidence: Medium. The nearest alternative is Pre-application advice first.
Suggested next steps
Confirm the site can be clearly red-lined on a location plan.
Prepare a short planning statement focused on principle, amount and local context.
Keep design detail light until Technical Details Consent.
Good evidence to gather
- Site boundary, ownership and access position.
- Local plan status and nearby planning decisions.
- Photos, levels, trees, drainage and known easements.
Before you spend more
- Check whether the site is in or next to a settlement.
- Look for flood, ecology, heritage and highways risks.
- Decide whether you want speed, certainty or maximum value.
Need a mapped planning read?
The site assessment is the best next step once you know the likely route.