In many cases developers do not know what requirements need to be met for solar shading on commercial buildings until it is too late. This can cause significant problems and result in considerable time and expense.
Is It Permitted Development
For most commercial properties additions to the external facade of a property will be considered a ‘material alteration’ and therefore not permitted under PD for external alterations to a building. The material alteration and any other relevant factors which might affect whether or not PD is available for external alterations to a building should be checked prior to the submission of any application.
Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas
A listed building consent application is also required as a substantive planning application and will relate to the proposed alterations affecting the character of a listed structure. Even where a building is not listed, conservation areas can impose restrictions upon developments upon lands within them, even upon unlisted buildings.
What a Planning Application Needs
We expect to receive full elevation drawings detailing proposed Solar Shading solutions, a detailed specification outlining proposed materials and finishes and a design-and-access statement explaining the relationship between proposed Solar Shading solution and existing facade.
If you are looking for Brise Soleil, see alusystems.uk/brise-soleil-solar-shading/.
Use Pre-Application Advice
Most local authorities will provide a pre-application advice service which can be paid for in advance. This can be a very useful meeting or written exchange with the planning officer to highlight any likely objections prior to submission and reduce the period of time for formal determination.
