Arun Planning Consultants

Arun, located in West Sussex, encompasses coastal towns like Littlehampton, Bognor Regis, and Arundel. Arundel is famed for its medieval architecture, including Arundel Castle and the Gothic-style Arundel Cathedral. The district has a rich cultural scene, with numerous theatres and galleries. Arun contains 971 listed buildings, reflecting its architectural heritage.

In the last year Arun decided 784 applications which is well below the national average of 988. The approval rate was 86% (roughly equal to the national average of 88%) and 90% of applications were decided on time, (significantly above the national average of 59%). Stats updated March 2026 from gov. sources. See how Arun performs relative to other LPAs in our LPA hub.

"We love helping clients win Planning Permission in Arun"

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Arun

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs), (now often referred to as National Landscapes), are protected areas recognised for their exceptional scenic and natural value. For developers, this means that planning proposals within these areas are carefully scrutinised, with a strong presumption against inappropriate development.

Arun includes parts of the South Downs AONB. Development proposals must consider scenic and environmental protections.

In our experience, one of the top reasons proposals in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are refused is causing landscape harm or visual intrusion, a risk that often arises when applications are not fully informed. We help minimise the likelihood of refusal with expert, guidance; contact us here.

Development in the Open Countryside

The Open Countryside is generally defined as land outside settlement and Green Belt boundaries, often comprising agricultural or natural land. Development, particularly standard residential development, is usually restricted in Open Countryside.

Arun’s open countryside, including parts of the South Downs National Landscape, is renowned for scenic beauty and is carefully protected against inappropriate development.

One of the top reasons poorly prepared proposals in the Open Countryside are refused is that they fail to demonstrate a policy-supported need. To minimise that risk with bespoke advice contact us here.

Nutrient Neutrality in Arun

Nutrient Neutrality ensures new developments do not increase harmful nitrogen or phosphorus levels in sensitive waterways. Some areas of Arun are part of the Solent nitrogen neutrality catchment; all residential development generating additional overnight stays must demonstrate nitrogen neutrality. Unfortunately, Nutrient Neutrality can halt development completely. If you need early-stage, project-specific advice contact us here.

Planning Applications in Arun

In addition to acting as Planing Conultants we are ARB registered architects with 25+ years of experience. Our planning proposals are creatively tailored to each site to maximise potential and improve planning outcomes. We use the following tried and tested process to guide clients in Arun through planning to completion:

1. Stage 1: Site Appraisals & Planning Strategy Advice
2. Stage 2: Feasibility Studies & Concept Designs
3. Stage 3: Planning Application Packages
   • Architectural Drawing Packages
   • Planning Statements & Design and Access Statements
   • Coordination of Consultant Reports
   • Direct Liaison with Planning Officers
4. Stage 4: Technical Design
   • Discharge of Planning Conditions
   • Building Regulations and Construction Packages

Planning Services We Offer in Arun

• Full Planning Applications: Commercial, new buildings, changes of use.
• Householder Planning Applications: Domestic extensions / garden structures.
• Listed Building Consent: Alterations / repairs to listed buildings.
• Conservation Area Consent: Developments within Conservation Areas.
• Lawful Development Certificates: Confirming existing / completed works are lawful.
• Validation Requirements: Gathering documentation to ensure applications are validated by Arun LPA.

Design-Led Planning Advice in Arun

We can review your site in Arun and offer informed guidance on how proposals can be developed in order to maximise your chances of securing Planning Permission.