Tell us about the site
Two working days. Residents’ groups: say so in the first line and the reduced rate applies from the first conversation.
Questions from both sides
Developers and residents ask almost entirely different ones.
Why publish the refusals?
Because a practice that shows only its wins is telling you something about its record, just not what it intends. Eighteen of our ninety-one applications were refused; all eighteen are listed with the reason.
Do you act against residents?
We act for developers, and sometimes residents oppose those schemes. What we will not do is act against a group we have previously advised. That has cost us two large instructions.
What is the reduced rate for community groups?
Roughly a fifth of the commercial rate, on about one engagement in six. Say so in your first message and it applies from the first conversation.
How long does an application take?
Three to five months for a minor application, nine to eighteen for a major one. Consultation done properly shortens that rather than lengthening it, which is counter-intuitive and consistently true.
Will you tell me if my case is weak?
Yes, in the first free hour, whichever side you are on. A position that is not arguable costs a great deal to discover slowly.