What Does Acting as Your Agent Mean During the Planning Process?
- Rosenkelly Architectural Design
- Nov 12, 2024
- 3 min read
If you’re applying for planning permission or a lawful development certificate in Dorset, you might hear an architect or consultant say they’ll “act as your agent.” But what does that really mean?
At Rosenkelly Architectural Design, based in Weymouth, we regularly act as our clients’ agent for planning. It’s part of making the whole process easier, especially for people unfamiliar with council forms, policies, or procedures. In this short guide, we explain what acting as your agent involves – and how it helps you get your project approved with less stress.
Acting as Your Planning Agent in Dorset: What It Actually Means
When Rosenkelly acts as your agent, we represent you during the planning or permitted development process. It means we:
Prepare and submit the planning application on your behalf
Communicate directly with Dorset Council’s planning team
Upload all required drawings, forms, and supporting documents
Respond to any queries or requests from planning officers
Monitor your application as it moves through the system
It’s a bit like having a translator, organiser, and advocate all in one. You don’t need to worry about logging into council portals or wondering whether your documents are in the right format — we handle it all.
Benefits of Using an Agent (Like Rosenkelly) in Dorset
Hiring someone to act as your planning agent brings several practical benefits, especially if you’re busy or unfamiliar with the system.
Save time and admin hassle: No forms to fill in, no confusing planning portal logins, no back-and-forth with the council.
Get it right the first time: Applications are rejected all the time for technical errors — wrong scale, missing documents, unclear plans. We make sure everything is correct before it goes in.
Better communication: If Dorset Council wants clarification or tweaks, we’ll speak their language. You stay informed without being overwhelmed.
Faster approvals: Well-prepared, accurate submissions tend to move through faster.
Local advantage: As a Weymouth-based architect, we’re used to working with Dorset Council. We understand their preferences and typical queries.
When Is an Agent Most Useful?
You can technically submit your own application — many homeowners try. But using a planning agent is especially helpful when:
Your project is complex or near sensitive areas (like conservation zones)
You need drawings and supporting documents prepared
You’re applying for a Certificate of Lawful Development under permitted development rules
You want to avoid rejection delays
You simply don’t want the admin stress
Whether it’s a rear extension in Weymouth, a garden studio in Portland, or a change of use in Bridport — Rosenkelly can take the lead.
Our Process as Your Agent
Here’s what it looks like when we act as your planning agent:
We survey and design – Starting with a measured survey (if needed), we prepare all your drawings and design documents.
We prepare your application – Including forms, planning statements, location plans, and supporting material.
We submit everything to Dorset Council – Through the Planning Portal or directly.
We monitor progress and liaise with planners – Answering any queries and updating you along the way.
We notify you of the decision – And advise on next steps (conditions, appeal, or building regs).
All communication from the council comes to us first — so we can interpret and respond appropriately.
Why Choose Rosenkelly Architectural Design?
We’re not just form-fillers. At Rosenkelly, acting as your agent is part of our full architectural service. That means:
We understand your design – Because we created it
We know local policy – Especially in Weymouth, Portland, and across Dorset
We stay in touch – You’re always informed, never left wondering what’s happening
We keep things cost-effective – You only pay for what you need
We’re a small, responsive firm that takes the time to do things properly. And as the only ARB-registered architect based in DT4 (Weymouth), we’re proud to help homeowners and small developers across the area.
Ready to Submit an Application?
If you're planning an extension, outbuilding, or a larger project in Dorset, don’t go it alone. Let Rosenkelly Architectural Design act as your agent — and make the process smoother from start to finish.
Contact us today to discuss your project, or book a free initial meeting. We’re here to help bring your ideas to life — without the stress of paperwork.
