Whatever the type of project at hand, whether it’s a commercial build or a private one, compliance is always one of the most crucial elements that needs to be considered at the very outset. And when it comes to compliance, two essential aspects of this regulatory framework are planning permission and building control. While both are pivotal in overseeing construction activities, they serve distinct purposes and operate under different authorities.
With well over a decade of experience behind us in mini piling here at Vxcel Piling, our considerable construction expertise encompasses almost every aspect of compliance, including planning permission and building control. So if you need a couple of pointers on the key differences, you’re in exactly the right place!
Authority and oversight
Planning permission is managed by local planning authorities, and primarily focuses on assessing proposed developments against local planning policies and regulations. Essentially, it ensures that each development is suitable for its intended location and comply with zoning and environmental considerations. Obtaining planning permission is typically mandatory before starting significant construction work. It’s a relatively straightforward process, which involves submitting detailed plans and designs for approval, considering factors like environmental impact and community impact.
It’s also not unusual for local planning authorities also conduct consultations with stakeholders and the public to gather feedback on proposed developments, especially for larger or contentious projects.
Building control on the other hand is overseen by either local authority building control departments or approved private inspectors. It ensures that construction projects comply with national building regulations and safety standards. Inspectors review detailed construction plans to verify compliance with building codes, including structural integrity, fire safety measures, and accessibility requirements.
They also conduct site inspections at key stages of construction to ensure that work is progressing according to approved plans and regulations. Upon satisfactory completion, building control issues a completion certificate confirming compliance with regulatory standards.
Application and approval process
The application process for planning permission requires detailed submission of plans, drawings, and sometimes environmental impact assessments to the local planning authority. The aim is essentially to gather sufficient information for informed decision-making on whether to approve or deny the application. It may also involve consultations with stakeholders and the public, particularly for complex or contentious projects. Local planning authorities assess applications against established planning policies, considering factors such as the impact on the local environment, infrastructure, and community needs.
In contrast, the building control application process focuses on demonstrating compliance with building regulations, ideally through detailed construction plans and specifications. It requires applicants to submit comprehensive plans that outline construction methods, materials, and structural designs. Building control reviews these plans to ensure they meet safety standards and regulatory requirements.
Throughout construction, inspectors conduct site visits to assess adherence to approved plans and regulations, providing guidance and feedback to ensure compliance. The completion certificate is issued once the construction is completed and deemed compliant with building regulations.
Focus and objectives
Planning permission decisions focus on evaluating the impact of proposed developments on the local environment, infrastructure, and community. Local planning policies guide these assessments – they’re designed to balance development needs with environmental and societal interests.
Authorities will consider factors such as the visual impact on the area, traffic implications, noise levels, and the protection of green spaces and heritage sites. The objective is to achieve sustainable development that enhances the quality of life for residents while preserving the character and identity of the local area.
Conversely, building control primarily focuses on technical aspects of construction to ensure that buildings are safe, accessible, and energy-efficient. Inspectors verify that construction methods and materials comply with established standards to protect public health and safety.
They also assess structural designs for stability, fire safety measures for adequate protection, and accessibility features for compliance with disability access requirements. The objective is to ensure that buildings meet high standards of construction quality and safety throughout their lifecycle.
Regulatory standards
Roles and responsibilities in planning permission are focused on applicants providing detailed development proposals and engaging with the local planning authority throughout the decision-making process. This may include addressing concerns from stakeholders, and in some cases possibly appealing decisions. Local planning authorities are responsible for evaluating applications against planning policies, and consulting with relevant stakeholders to make informed decisions that balance development needs with environmental and community interests.
For building control, responsibilities lie in ensuring construction work adheres to approved plans and regulatory standards. Developers must notify authorities at various construction stages for inspections. Inspectors verify compliance with building regulations, providing advice on necessary corrections or improvements to meet safety and quality standards. They play a crucial role in monitoring construction progress to ensure that all aspects of the building process meet regulatory requirements and contribute to the overall safety and quality of buildings.
And of course, if you still need any clarity, or you’ve got questions that we haven’t covered above, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. As highly experienced mini piling contractors here at Vxcel, we have well over a decade of delivering exceptional results – encompassing domestic projects, commercial properties, and industrial warehouses. To find out what we’ve achieved for previous customers, feel free to take a look through our case studies! Or, if you have any questions or need any advice, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team on 01254 314010, and we’ll be happy to see how we can help!
