By SIMON RIX
I’m excited to share that I was recently featured in The Sunday Times, where I discussed the growing challenges homeowners and businesses face when dealing with planning rules. As the senior planning permission consultant at Planix.uk, I’ve seen first-hand how complex and unpredictable the planning system can be, and I’m passionate about helping people overcome these obstacles.
The Growing Challenge of Planning Enforcement
The Sunday Times article highlights how more and more homeowners are finding themselves in retrospective planning disputes—sometimes facing enforcement notices, legal battles, or even demolition orders. One case featured a homeowner in Wales who was ordered to tear down four holiday cabins because of their impact on the landscape, while another involved a couple in Scotland whose dream home is at risk due to planning breaches.
One of the key issues I raised in the article is that planning decisions are often discretionary. Many people assume that if their property has been standing for years, or if others have done something similar, their project will be fine. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case—council officers can take very different approaches, and without expert advice, homeowners can find themselves in serious trouble.
How I Helped Secure a Family’s Home
One case I was particularly proud to be involved in was Michelle and Billy Harris’s alpaca farm in Cornwall. The couple needed to live on-site to care for their animals, but despite multiple applications, the council refused to grant them permission.
When they came to me, I knew there was a way forward. By challenging the council’s decision, preparing a strong case, and working alongside their local councillor, I was able to get their application reconsidered—and eventually approved. They were granted permission for their dream home, allowing them to stay on their land and continue running their business.
This case is a great example of why expert planning advice makes all the difference. Many people give up too soon or don’t realise they have options.
How I Can Help You
If you’re dealing with a planning issue—whether it’s securing permission, responding to an enforcement notice, or applying for retrospective approval—I’d love to help. I offer a free initial consultation (15-20 minutes via phone or Zoom) to discuss your situation and see how I can assist.
At Planix.uk, I provide:
✅ Planning applications – I’ll handle the entire process, from preparation to submission
✅ Certificates of Lawfulness – Confirming whether your project is legal under planning rules
✅ Planning appeals – Challenging refusals and enforcement actions
✅ Negotiations with councils – Advocating for you to get the best possible outcome
If you’re facing a planning challenge, don’t wait until it’s too late.
Get in touch today and let’s find a way forward together.
📞 Call or text me on 07801 356 840
or
📧 Email me via simon@planix.uk
Click on the image below to read the full Sunday Times article:
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