Plan Appraisal and Pre- Application Consultation
The plan appraisal section deals with over 2,000 'Full Plan' applications each year.
They look at applications to make sure they comply with the current law.
This makes sure that satisfactory health; safety and welfare standards are provided for the benefit of all who visit, work or live in buildings which meet the Building Regulations.
Many pre-application consultation meetings take place between developers, fire brigade and plan appraisal staff
This is actively encouraged when large projects such as hospitals; office developments; shopping centres etc are proposed.
The main areas for discussion at such meetings are about fire resistance; means of escape in case of fire and access facilities for persons with disabilities. The appraisal officers take the lead role.
They also provides support to a team of Field Control staff in the implementation of the building Regulations by providing a link between the pre-submission consultation meeting and the practical building work on site.