Why Architects and Building Designers Refer Clients to Town Planners
- Plan BE
- Sep 10
- 2 min read
From concept to council approval – making the process seamless
When you’re preparing to build, renovate, or develop property, one of the first professionals you’ll likely engage is an architect or building designer. They bring your ideas to life on paper, creating the plans and drawings that capture your vision. But almost every architect or designer will tell you the same thing: before you can move forward, you’ll need the input of a town planner.
So why is that? And what does a town planner bring to the process that makes them so essential?
What Does a Town Planner Do?
A town planner specialises in navigating the rules and regulations that govern land use and development. Whether it’s local environmental plans, zoning restrictions, heritage overlays, or development control plans, planners understand the complex framework councils use to assess development applications (DAs).
Where an architect or designer focuses on the “what” and “how” of your build, a town planner ensures it’s legally permissible and strategically prepared to gain approval.
In simple terms:
Architects and designers create the vision.
Town planners pave the way for that vision to be approved.
Why Architects and Designers Recommend Town Planners
1. Preventing Delays and Rejections
Even the most beautifully designed home or development can be stalled or rejected if it doesn’t meet planning requirements. Planners reduce this risk by making sure projects align with council expectations.
2. Expertise in Development Applications (DAs)
A DA is often required before construction can proceed. Town planners prepare and submit these applications, liaise with council, and address issues such as site constraints, environmental factors, or community objections.
3. Early Problem Identification
Planners anticipate challenges like setbacks, building heights, heritage restrictions, or bushfire zones, and guide adjustments before designs are finalised.
4. A Collaborative Process
Architects and designers thrive on creativity, while planners thrive on compliance and approvals. By working together, they balance design innovation with practical approval pathways.
The PlanBE Difference: Town Planner and Building Design Under One Roof
At PlanBE, we’ve built our business around making this process seamless. Instead of requiring clients to source separate design and planning services, we offer both in-house.
With an experienced building designer working directly alongside our senior town planner, your project benefits from:
A unified process – Design and planning considered together from day one.
Time and cost savings – Risks are identified early, preventing costly redesigns.
Smarter outcomes – Designs that are both creative and achievable, with a clear path to approval.
One point of contact – A streamlined, stress-free experience for clients.
This integrated model is central to why every project needs a PlanBE.
Why Choose PlanBE?
Over 18 years of experience in planning across NSW, ACT, and regional areas.
A proven track record in securing approvals across a wide range of development types.
A collaborative team that balances innovation with compliance.
A commitment to saving clients time, money, and stress.
Whether you’re an Investor, looking to renovate, or a homeowner starting your journey, PlanBE has the expertise and structure to move your project forward with confidence.
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