Planning is where many architecture ideas meet reality. A strong concept still needs to move through policy, risk, negotiation, local context and the practical route to permission.
John Snow from Tetrick Planning brings that world into focus, explaining what planning consultants do, how they work with architects and why Section 106 can become a critical part of a project.
Watch: John Snow on planning and Section 106
John Snow explains what planning consultants do, how they work with architects and why Section 106 can shape the real project route.
Listen: planning consultancy in practice
The audio version gives the full conversation on Tetrick Planning, planning strategy, Section 106, complex projects and inclusive professional practice.
Useful source link
Tetrick Planning gives more context on John’s planning consultancy work and the sectors discussed in the episode.
Where planning consultants help
A planning consultant is not only there to rescue a difficult application. The best value often comes earlier, when the design team is still shaping the brief, risk position and route through policy.
- Reading the policy context before the design route is fixed.
- Identifying planning risks before they become expensive.
- Advising on pre-application strategy and stakeholder communication.
- Helping the team understand Section 106 obligations.
- Keeping ambition connected to a realistic route to consent.
Why architects should care about Section 106
Section 106 agreements can affect viability, timing, obligations and the wider negotiation around a development. Even when the architect is not leading that legal process, the design team needs to understand the implications.
Common mistakes
- Treating planning as admin after the design is finished.
- Ignoring local policy until the application stage.
- Confusing a strong design idea with a permission strategy.
- Leaving Section 106 until it becomes a surprise.
- Underestimating how planning risk changes client decisions.
Architecture Social view
Stephen’s recruiter view is that planning awareness makes candidates and teams more commercially useful. The strongest people can talk about design quality and the route that helps a project actually happen.
Check the planning route early
Before a project gets too far, ask the practical questions that affect time, cost and consent.
- What policies shape the site?
- What objections are likely?
- Is Section 106 relevant?
- Who needs to be involved before the application is submitted?
Next step
Use the episode to understand the planning consultant’s role, then explore Tetrick Planning or Architecture Social resources depending on whether you need project insight, hiring support or career context.
Add a comment