Home owners will have to pay £100 for discussion from 1st April

From 1 April 2011, a charge of £100 will be made for pre-application planning advice to all householders considering building an extension or outbuilding or modifying the appearance of their home.

The service, which is currently free, helps the home owner identify likely problems with proposals and enables the Council's planning department to suggest changes that will increase the likelihood of an approval.

Developers of medium or major developments already charged for advice and further meetings or other officer responses will generate additional charges. From 1 April 2011, there will be an increase in charges.

For residents, advice is available at the civic centre in Hounslow, Monday to Friday by appointment only.

For developers, an appointment will be arranged subject to completion and acceptance of a valid pre application advice form.

March 28, 2011