Planning Appeals Solicitors | Poole, Bournemouth, Dorset

Planning Appeals

Should your planning application be refused by the Local Planning Authority you have the option to lodge an appeal which is determined by the Planning Inspectorate. We are expert in the preparation and submission of all types of planning appeal. We have access to up-to-the minute appeal decisions which we use in support if they have a bearing on your appeal site. Our planning solicitors can deal with any legal issues which need to be addressed during the appeal and as members of the Royal Town Planning Institute we have direct access to the Planning Bar where we can obtain the very best advice from Counsel on your behalf.

Householder appeals are now very streamlined in terms of their duration and all supporting documentation needs to be lodged with the grounds of appeal. The deadline to lodge an appeal is just 12 weeks following the date of decision so you are advised to contact us as soon as possible after the refusal so we can put the best possible case forward.

Other appeals are conducted by three methods: Written Representations, Informal Hearing and Public Inquiry. We are greatly experienced in all three appeal methods and each one requires different attributes to maximise chances of success.

Written Representation appeals are executed via an exchange of Statements with the Local Planning Authority. Our Statements hone in on the reasons for refusal and dissect each one in relation to planning policy and relevant case law. We aim to leave no stone unturned and we strive to include you, our clients, in the process by providing draft versions of each Statement to you for comment so every possible angle is covered.

Informal Hearing appeals proceed in much the same way as Written Representations except that there is a round-table discussion between the Inspector, the Local Authority and the appellant at the end of the process. We are skilled in putting across our points verbally in a persuasive manner in this environment ensuring that your case has the best chance of success.

Public Inquiry appeals are often led by our planning solicitors with our planning consultant operating as an expert planning witness. These appeals tend to be more legalistic but our one-stop service provides you with the perfect team to tackle what are usually the most complex or controversial planning appeals.

There is now the opportunity to apply for a costs award if we feel that the Local Planning Authority has acted unreasonably in determining the planning application or during the appeal process. We are expert in lodging costs claims where we feel there is a case to answer.

For Roger Leedham, Senior Partner

“We have used Coles Miller for every house move (and there have been quite a few!) since 1987. Roger Leedham and the team made our recent move in 2018 as smooth and stress free as a house move can ever be. Nothing is ever too much trouble and the brilliant communication between Coles Miller and all the other parties in the chain helped us manage timescales and dates seamlessly. I recommend Roger Leedham and Coles Miller to anyone about to move house.”

For Jason Barnett, partner

We just wanted to say a huge thank you for all your help and hard work on our purchase. You ensured the transaction ran smoothly and that communication was always thorough and professional; we would highly recommend you to others.

For Ruth Elkins, Partner

“I used Ruth Elkins of Coles Miller Broadstone for the conveyancing of my late mother's house in Broadstone. I have moved house myself several times but never used Coles Miller before. I wish I had! It was the most stress-free and efficient house conveyancing I have experienced and everyone I encountered in the office was friendly and helpful. I would recommend Coles Miller to anyone.”

For Michelle Vick Partner, Chartered Legal Executive

“Michelle – you have been my ‘true north’ throughout this whole process. Understanding, knowledgeable, honest and considerate whilst always acting with integrity and my best intentions. I would highly recommend you and Coles Miller to friends, family and colleagues. You have kept me in the loop every step of the way and I have never felt the need to chase for updates. Also, understanding my needs, wants and concerns (first time buyers) was truly refreshing. You are a definitive representation of how customer service should be provided!”

Lianne Clenton Bray, Associate Solicitor

"Lianne Clenton Bray from Poole branch recently acted for us. Very helpful, as was her team. Many thanks Lianne."

For Pam Coniam, Conveyancing Executive

“Pam and her team were recommended to us by our financial advisor; we couldn’t be happier with the service provided. As first time buyers, the whole process was new and confusing, Pam made this simple right from the initial meeting – explaining what was needed at each stage. We were advised on all the necessary points that came up before exchange and any problems were quickly resolved by Coles Miller. The exchange and completion went through without a hitch and minimal stress. We will definitely be back when it’s time to move up the ladder.”

For Katie Owen, Solicitor

“I'd just like to say thank you for all your help with the purchase of my house and for the lovely card. I'd especially like to say how much I appreciated your quick responses to my queries something that I have not found with other solicitors."

For Laura Hall, Solicitor

“We have just finalised the sale of our last home and the purchase of our new home. It has been very stressful and frustrating for many reasons. Laura and Roger from Coles Miller have been absolutely amazing. We have received sound advice, they have covered our backs at every angle, and they have been extremely professional and proactive. We had many obstacles on the way due to selling a leasehold property, long delays from our buyer waiting for their mortgage offer, seller being awkward etc. Thank you Coles Miller for taking so much pressure and stress off our shoulders.”

For Deborah Bradburn, Legal Assistant

"Thank you for helping us get everything through again so quickly. We shall definitely recommend you both to everyone we know, as we think you and Roger have been extremely efficient and helpful throughout the whole process."