If you've come across the term "Tier 3 Feasibility Specialist" while researching planning drawings, you might be wondering what tier system that refers to, and whether it matters for your project. Here's a straightforward explanation.
What "Tier 3" means at Plan Pros
We describe ourselves as Tier 3 Feasibility Specialists because we focus specifically on the planning phase of a project — producing the drawings a council needs to assess and approve (or refuse) your application — rather than acting as a full architectural practice that also designs, specifies materials, and oversees construction. It's a deliberately narrower, more focused service than a traditional architect provides, and that focus is exactly what keeps the cost and turnaround down.
What's actually included
A typical planning drawing pack includes location and site plans, existing drawings of your property as it stands, and proposed drawings showing what you want to build, along with existing and proposed floor plans where relevant. Depending on your project, you might need a Standard Planning Pack, a Permitted Development Compliance Pack (which includes an eligibility assessment and Lawful Development Certificate or Prior Approval plans), or a Retrospective Planning pack if work has already been carried out. Unlimited revisions are included during the design stage on all of our packs, so you're not paying extra every time something needs adjusting before submission.
When councils require this
Any planning application — whether a full application or one relying on permitted development rights — needs drawings that clearly show the existing and proposed state of the property, to a standard the local authority can properly assess. Councils will validate and process an application faster, and with fewer requests for further information, when the drawings are clear, accurate and complete from the outset.
The "not suitable for construction" point
This is an important distinction and one worth understanding clearly: planning drawings are prepared to secure planning permission, not to build from. They are not suitable for construction on their own — once you have planning approval, a separate set of Building Regulations drawings (or a Building Notice) is typically required before work can actually begin on site. Planning permission and Building Regulations approval are two different processes with two different sets of drawings, and conflating them is a common and costly mistake.
Do you need one?
If you're planning an extension, loft conversion, outbuilding, or any other project that needs council approval, you'll need planning drawings in some form before you can submit. Getting the right pack for your specific project — rather than paying for more than you need — is exactly what a quick conversation with our team can help clarify.
See our planning drawing packs and find the right one for your project.