Planning Guard

About Planning Guard

Software that helps UK residents prepare readable planning objections in their own words — with a free check on what may carry weight — without needing a planning background or a costly consultant.

Why we built this

Most people who want to object don't know where to start — or worry they must sound like planning experts. In practice, clear explanations of how a proposal would affect you can matter a great deal. Planning Guard helps you sort which concerns may carry weight in planning terms, flags common non-material motives (like property value alone), and gives you an editable draft you still personalise. Your ward councillor may also be able to help for free.

How it works

  1. 1

    Free preliminary scan

    Describe your concerns and optionally upload the applicant's documents. Our AI identifies material planning grounds and gives you a Red–Amber–Green confidence rating. No payment required.

  2. 2

    Review the analysis

    See what grounds are strongest, which concerns are non-material (and why), and suggested next steps. Decide whether to proceed.

  3. 3

    Download your documents

    Pay once for an editable Word (.docx) and PDF. The Objection Letter (£4.99) covers the formal letter. The Full Toolkit (£9.99) adds a councillor briefing note and committee speech script.

  4. 4

    Edit & submit

    Add your personal details and the specifics only you know — edit the draft so it sounds like you, not a template — then lodge via your council's planning portal before the consultation deadline.

What we are not

Planning Guard is software, not a law firm or planning consultancy. Nothing we produce constitutes legal advice. We do not submit representations on your behalf. You remain responsible for the accuracy of your objection and for meeting your council's deadline. If your case is complex or contentious, consider instructing a qualified planning consultant or solicitor.

Coverage

Material considerations apply across the UK, but national policy frameworks differ: England (NPPF), Wales (Future Wales / PPW), Scotland (NPF4), and Northern Ireland (SPPS). Our product is built primarily around the English NPPF and adjusts framing for the authority you select — as described in our Terms.

The council directory lists local planning authorities across the UK. Guides on the blog are mainly written for England and Wales; if you are in Scotland or Northern Ireland, treat them as background and follow national and council guidance. If you can't find your council, contact us.

Ready to start?

Free scan first. No commitment.

The preliminary scan is free — no payment until you decide you want the documents. Find out if your objection has planning weight in 5 minutes.

  • Free material-grounds scan — no card required
  • Editable letter draft from £4.99
  • Full toolkit with councillor briefing from £9.99