Get face-to-face planning advice (Duty Planner Standard Service)

What advice you can get

At the meeting, you can:

• discuss your proposal before you submit it

• make sure it is in line with the development plan and other planning guidance/legislation

• get advice to help you develop your scheme

• help get a decision made quickly.

The service covers straightforward schemes, and revisions to previously decided applications for buildings, including those in conservation areas, provided they are not a listed building. For example:

• simple householder extensions and alterations

• shopfront and advertisement alterations to business premises.

• the adequacy of information provided in order to discharge conditions attached to planning permissions (note this does not provide input from other departments within the Council, such as the Highways or Environmental Health departments)

• Lawful Development Certificate applications – we can also tell you if your proposed development or change of use is likely to be permitted.

Before you request advice

We strongly recommend that you look at the Planning Portal before you book a chargeable service. Here you’ll find:

• an interactive guide for houses

• an interactive guide for terraces (including flats, shops and basements)

• information about common projects

• frequently asked questions, which cover both planning permission and building regulations.

You should also read our planning policy and guidance.

Cost of service

The charge from 1 April 2024 for the service is £110.50 + VAT (Total £132.60 including VAT)

How to book

• Before you book a meeting, you should collate sketches, photographs, and/or outline plans.

• To book a meeting, download and complete the form below and email it to planning@lewisham.gov.uk.

• We will contact you within five working days to take your payment over the phone. When you have paid, we will book you a 20-minute meeting. Meetings are available on working weekday afternoons, 1–4pm.

• You need to give us the details of up to two people attending the meeting.

• An officer will review your materials (you can send in more information but this must be submitted by 1pm three working days before the meeting).

• After the meeting, the officer will send you a brief written summary of the key points you discussed within five working days.

Disclaimer​

Any planning advice given by officers, either orally or in writing in the course of their duties, is offered in good faith and is based on the information/evidence provided. Advice is offered without the benefit of a site visit or the involvement of other consultees (not internal and external), neighbours or other interested parties. Such views are therefore the personal opinion of that officer and are not a formal decision of, nor are they binding, on the local planning authority. The local planning authority will only be bound where a formal application is submitted and a formal decision is issued in writing.