Planning and the Environment

Planning Law is of increasing relevance to commercial clients who require assistance to obtain the correct planning permissions to achieve their commercial goals. Legislative changes have ensured that planning permits are required for an increasing range of commercial and property activities.

Bazzani Scully Brand can provide expert advice in planning law to ensure all the required approvals are obtained for a new business development or a redevelopment of an existing business, regardless of the size of the project.

Bazzani Scully Brand recognise that delays in the development or commencement of a new business venture can be both frustrating and costly. By providing the correct advice we also provide a basis for our clients to set their expectations and manage their own project plans and scheduling.

We act for applicants for planning permits for commercial, retail and residential developments and offer advice to clients in negotiating permit conditions with Councils and objectors to planning applications. We prepare Section 173 Agreements often required as part of a planning approval.

Bazzani Scully Brand acts in planning appeals to VCAT:

• against a refusal of a planning application by a Council;
• against unsatisfactory conditions imposed by a Council;
• on behalf of objectors against a Council decision to grant a permit or conditions on that permit; and
• applications to extend the time for commencement or completion of a development or works when that extension has been refused by Council.

Commercial ventures, especially licensed premises are often the subject of Council or residential complaint resulting in enforcement proceedings before VCAT. We act on behalf of business owners and objectors in these critical applications.