Business Details
41 Years
experience
Expert Planning & Architectural Consultancy Services
David Stovell & Millwater is a well-established independent firm of Planning and Architectural Consultants based in the North East. Founded in 1985, we combine over four decades of planning expertise with in-house architectural design capabilities. Our Managing Director, David Stovell, brings extensive experience as a former Planning Inspector, having handled all types of planning applications and public inquiries. We provide end-to-end services from initial concept to project completion, serving a diverse client base including multinational corporations, developers, charities, and individual landowners. Our deep understanding of planning legislation enables us to navigate complex regulatory frameworks effectively.We maintain strong relationships with local authorities and professional bodies across the UK. Our practice integrates planning consultancy with architectural design to deliver tailored solutions for commercial, residential, industrial, and heritage projects. With a focus on cost-effective outcomes, we specialise in strategic site selection, feasibility studies, and community consultation. Our reputation for professional integrity and technical excellence has been built through consistent delivery of successful planning outcomes since 1985. We remain committed to providing independent, expert advice that meets the evolving needs of our clients.
Services
Planning Applications
Planning Appeals
Architectural Design
Feasibility Studies
Community Consultation
Heritage Planning
Commercial Development
Residential Projects
Industrial Sites
Renewable Energy
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We have 40 years of planning experience including former Planning Inspector expertise
- Our in-house architectural team provides integrated design and planning solutions
- We handle complex planning applications across commercial, residential, and industrial sectors
- Our client base spans multinational corporations to individual landowners
- We specialise in strategic site selection and feasibility studies
Services
Planning Applications
We prepare and submit comprehensive planning applications for residential, commercial, and industrial developments. Our expertise ensures compliance with current legislation while maximising approval chances. Our team handles all documentation and negotiations with local authorities.
Planning Appeals
When applications face refusal, we manage the appeals process including preparing detailed submissions and representing clients at public inquiries. Our experience with Planning Inspectors improves chances of overturning unfavourable decisions.
Architectural Design
Our in-house architectural team creates practical designs that meet planning requirements while fulfilling client objectives. We provide concept designs through to detailed planning drawings for various building types and scales.
Feasibility Studies
We assess potential sites for development potential, considering planning constraints and market viability. Our studies help clients make informed decisions about land acquisition and project viability.
Community Consultation
We manage consultation processes with local communities and interest groups to address concerns and build support for planning applications. Our approach helps prevent objections that could delay approvals.
People
David Stovell
Managing Director
With 40 years of planning experience, including as a former Planning Inspector, David leads our consultancy. He specialises in complex planning applications and appeals, bringing authoritative expertise to client projects.
Questions
What planning services do you offer?
We handle all aspects of planning including applications, appeals, feasibility studies, and community consultation for residential, commercial, and industrial developments.
How does your architectural service integrate with planning?
Our in-house architectural team works alongside planners to create designs that meet both aesthetic goals and planning requirements, streamlining the approval process.
Which sectors do you specialise in?
We work across commercial, residential, industrial, heritage, renewable energy, and rural development sectors with tailored planning strategies.
How can you help with difficult planning cases?
Our Managing Director's experience as a Planning Inspector gives unique insight into decision-making processes, improving chances of successful outcomes.
What areas do you cover?
While based in Middlesbrough, we work throughout the North East and accept projects nationwide requiring specialist planning expertise.
How do you charge for services?
We provide transparent cost estimates before work starts. Fees depend on project complexity and required services, with no hidden charges.
