CJM Planning

SJM Planning was established in 2012 by company director Simon McKay. The firm's inception followed McKay's seven years of service as a local authority planning officer. Initially, SJM Planning focused on projects within Kent and Sussex. Over time, the company's operational scope expanded to encompass a broader area, including much of the South East and Greater London.

The firm provides professional planning advice, aiming to guide clients through the planning application process. The company undertakes a diverse range of projects, which include new dwellings, office-to-residential conversions, and rural developments. SJM Planning also handles changes of use and residential extensions. The firm's project portfolio is not exhaustive, and it is prepared to engage with projects of varying sizes, scales, and complexities.

This broad experience allows SJM Planning to address a wide array of client needs within the planning and development sectors. SJM Planning has developed a professional network that includes specialist architects, ecologists, transport planners, heritage consultants, flood risk assessors, structural engineers, and topographical surveyors. By collaborating with these various disciplines, the company aims to offer clients a comprehensive service package. This integrated approach can include working drawings, Building Control plans, and structural specifications.

The firm also maintains relationships with trusted contractors, enabling it to facilitate and oversee construction work, managing aspects of the build process. The firm possesses experience in the area of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and office conversions. SJM Planning's services in this sector are designed for clients looking to enhance their investment portfolios. The company has successfully obtained planning permission for a 95-bed HMO in central Croydon, demonstrating its capability in managing larger-scale multi-occupancy residential projects.

Additionally, the firm has secured approvals for office-to-residential conversions, which often involve navigating complex planning regulations related to changes of use. SJM Planning aims to provide accurate, impartial, and cost-effective professional planning advice. The company's objective is to ensure that client planning applications proceed smoothly through what can be an intricate planning process. The firm offers an independent approach to resolving complex planning issues.

Simon McKay, the company director, has achieved MRTPI status, signifying full membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute, an internationally recognized mark of professional expertise and competence. This membership underscores the firm's commitment to professional standards and current planning policies. Beyond core planning applications, SJM Planning offers expertise in areas such as planning appeals, where the firm can review refused schemes and advise on the likelihood of success or suggest amendments for resubmission. The company also handles the discharge and variation of planning conditions, assisting clients in complying with or modifying requirements attached to planning permissions.

Furthermore, SJM Planning has experience in preparing legal agreements, such as those required under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, and can advise on potential risks and negotiate agreement scope and content with Local Planning Authorities. The firm also provides advice on permitted development rights and can assist with Lawful Development Certificates.