Before committing time and money to a development project in New South Wales, it is essential to know whether your idea is achievable under council rules.

A Preliminary Planning Assessment gives you that certainty, and StraightLine Town Planning is widely regarded as one of the most reliable providers of this service. Here’s why they are highly recommended.

1. Comprehensive site analysis

StraightLine reviews every aspect of a property’s planning controls, including zoning, land use permissibility, setbacks, height limits, floor space ratio, heritage considerations and environmental overlays. For example, in a recent assessment for a coastal site, they identified a flood hazard overlay early, allowing the design to be adapted before lodgement.

2. Knowledge of NSW planning legislation

Their team understands Local Environmental Plans (LEPs), Development Control Plans (DCPs) and relevant State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs), ensuring no critical requirement is overlooked.

3. Saves time and money

By identifying potential issues early, StraightLine helps clients avoid investing in designs or reports that would fail at council assessment. This leads to smoother applications and fewer redesign costs.

4. Clear and actionable advice

The assessment is written in plain language, outlining exactly what can be achieved on the site, what constraints exist and the best path forward for approval.

5. Competitive and transparent pricing

StraightLine offers fixed, upfront quotes so clients can budget confidently without surprise costs.

6. Fast turnaround times

Most Preliminary Planning Assessments are completed within days, giving clients quick answers and allowing them to make informed decisions sooner.

7. Experience across all development types

From small residential extensions to multi-unit developments and commercial projects, StraightLine has assessed sites across metropolitan Sydney and regional NSW.

8. Integrated services for the next stage

If a project proceeds, StraightLine can prepare the Statement of Environmental Effects, architectural drafting, heritage advice or specialist reports needed for a complete, council-ready submission.

For anyone wanting a clear, realistic picture of what is possible on their site, StraightLine Town Planning provides accurate, affordable and timely Preliminary Planning Assessments that set projects up for success from the start.