Norwich Planning Consultants

Planning in Norwich is distinct from the rest of the county. As a historic city with a dense urban environment, Norwich City Council applies strict policies that don't apply in the countryside. From the Article 4 Directions restricting HMOs to the stringent Heritage requirements in the city center, you need a consultant who specializes in urban planning.

At Cedar Planning, we understand the unique challenges of building in Norwich. Whether you are extending a Victorian terrace in the Golden Triangle, converting an office to flats (Class MA) in the City Centre, or investing in student accommodation near the UEA, we guide you through the City Council’s specific regulations.

Navigating Norwich City Council Policies

Norwich is one of the most heritage-rich cities in the UK. This makes planning permission harder to obtain, but not impossible. We specialise in:

• Conservation Areas: Norwich has 17 Conservation Areas (including Heigham Grove, Newmarket Road, and the City Centre). We produce the detailed Heritage Statements required to prove your design respects the historic fabric.

• HMOs & Student Housing: Norwich has strict Article 4 Directions that remove the right to convert homes into HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) without planning permission. We help landlords navigate these restrictions to secure legal lettable space.

• Commercial to Residential (Class MA): With the changing face of the high street, we assist property owners in converting vacant offices or shops into residential apartments using Permitted Development rights.

Our Norwich Services

We provide a full range of planning consultancy services in Norwich - why not check out our page for more information here.

1. Householder Applications (Conservation Focus) Extending a home in Eaton, Thorpe Hamlet, or Unthank Road often requires high-quality design to satisfy conservation officers. We help you balance modern living needs with heritage constraints.

2. Change of Use & Commercial We assist Norwich business owners with Class E changes (shops, cafes, gyms) and managing planning conditions for hours of operation and extraction systems.

3. Planning Appeals in the City If Norwich City Council has refused your application—often citing "impact on street scene" or "over-development"—we can appeal. We know how to argue that urban density is necessary and sustainable in a city setting.

4. Enforcement Help Have you received an Enforcement Notice regarding an HMO or an unauthorised shopfront? We can intervene and help regularize the situation.

Why Choose Cedar Planning for Norwich Projects?

• Urban Expertise: We understand "Brownfield" development and density arguments, which are essential for city sites.

• Local Knowledge: We know the difference between the planning constraints in NR1 vs NR3. We understand the local housing market pressures driven by the universities.

• Heritage Sensitivity: We work with the historic character of the city, not against it, giving your application the best chance of approval.

• Clear, Responsive Support - Honest and professional advice - always.

Get Advice on Your Norwich Project

Contact us for a free initial desktop review. We will check your property for Article 4 restrictions and Conservation Area status before we begin.