Services – What We Do2026-09-17T16:14:33+00:00

Black Box Planning

Our Services

Working across the South West and throughout the UK, we support projects of every scale, from individual developments to major strategic sites.

Planning expertise for every stage of development

Black Box Planning is a specialist town planning consultancy, supporting clients at every stage of the planning journey. Whether you are exploring the potential of a site, preparing an application, promoting land for future development or facing a planning challenge, our team can step in at any point to provide the advice and expertise you need.

Our services span early site appraisal and planning strategy, pre-application advice, planning applications and stakeholder engagement through to Local Plan promotion, appeals and complex planning matters.

Because our expertise is focused entirely on town planning, our clients benefit from a team with deep knowledge of the planning system, policy and Local Planning Authorities across the UK. Whatever stage you are at, we’ll understand where you are, what needs to happen next and the best strategy for moving forward.

Our Services

Planning Applications

Preparing, managing and negotiating planning applications to maximise the chances of securing planning permission.

Strategic Land Promotion

Promoting development sites through the Local Plan process to unlock long-term development opportunities and maximise land value.

Expert Witness & Planning Appeals

Professional planning appeal representation and expert witness services for written appeals, hearings and public inquiries.

Political Research & Engagement

Promoting development sites through the Local Plan process to unlock long-term development opportunities and maximise land value.

Lawful Development Certificates & Change of Use

Expert advice on lawful development certificates and change of use applications for residential, commercial and rural developments.

Community Consultations & Stakeholder Engagement

Planning and managing effective public consultations that build trust and support successful planning outcomes.

Land Purchase & Board Reports

Detailed planning due diligence reports that support confident land acquisitions and investment decisions.

Project Management & EIA Co-ordination

Coordinating multidisciplinary teams and Environmental Impact Assessments to deliver complex planning projects efficiently.

Planning Prospects Appraisals

Professional planning appraisals that assess development potential, planning risks and the likelihood of securing planning permission.

Planning Strategy Reports

Clear, strategic planning advice that helps clients navigate the planning system and make informed development decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a planning consultancy do?2026-06-26T09:57:12+00:00

A planning consultancy provides expert advice to help developers, landowners, businesses and public sector organisations navigate the planning system. At Black Box Planning, we offer strategic planning advice, prepare and manage planning applications, coordinate specialist consultants and work with local authorities to maximise the chances of a successful planning outcome.

When should I appoint a planning consultant?2026-06-26T09:57:12+00:00

The earlier a planning consultant is involved, the better. Whether you’re promoting strategic land, considering a development opportunity or preparing a planning application, early planning advice can identify potential constraints, reduce risk and help shape a strategy that saves time and cost later in the process.

Can Black Box Planning help with planning permission?2026-06-26T09:57:12+00:00

Yes. We manage planning applications for a wide range of residential, commercial and mixed-use developments across the South West and nationally. From initial feasibility studies and planning appraisals through to submission, negotiation and appeals, we guide clients through every stage of the planning process.

What types of projects do you work on?2026-06-26T09:57:12+00:00

We work across a broad range of sectors including residential development, strategic land, commercial and employment, tourism and leisure, renewable energy, telecommunications, healthcare, education, heritage and rural projects. Our team supports projects ranging from individual planning applications to large-scale strategic developments.

Do you work throughout the UK?2026-09-07T10:22:27+00:00

Yes. With offices in Bristol and Exeter, Black Box Planning works with clients and projects across England, Wales and Scotland. Our work has enabled us to build strong relationships with Local Planning Authorities across the country, alongside an extensive network of trusted industry contacts. We combine this with a detailed understanding of Local Plans, planning policy and the opportunities and challenges presented by each area.

Take a look at our project map to see where we’re currently working across the country.

What are the benefits of using an independent planning consultancy?2026-09-07T10:23:00+00:00

The planning system can be complex, and getting the right advice from the outset can save considerable time and cost. Without specialist planning advice, mistakes or missed opportunities early in the process can lead to unnecessary delays, additional expense or, ultimately, an unsuccessful application.

At Black Box Planning, we identify potential issues early, develop the right planning strategy and guide projects efficiently through the planning process. We work collaboratively with our clients, Local Planning Authorities, architects and other specialist consultants to navigate challenges and achieve the best possible outcome.

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