Planning law is one of the most rapidly moving legal areas, with major structural changes to the planning system occurring in recent years. Despite attempts at simplification, it remains one of the most complex fields for both students and practitioners to navigate. In this continually evolving field, the fifteenth edition of A Practical Approach to Planning Law is an authoritative and reliable resource for all those working in this area, providing a comprehensive and systematic account of the applicable principles and practice. The text guides the reader through each stage of the planning process, from applications for planning permission through to appeals and litigation in the courts, in a clear and accessible style. The book is arranged through thematic chapters, which broadly follow the timeline of when issues may arise in the lifecycle of a development. These include considering whether planning permission is required; the formalities of making an application for permission; the necessary supporting material; the evaluation of an application; the legal effect of a planning permission; legal challenges to a permission and planning enforcement. The latest edition considers all recent cases as well as important legislative and policy developments since the publication of the previous edition, particularly those arising out of the Levelling-up, Housing and Regeneration Act 2023 and Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Act 2023.

Dr Ashley Bowes is a barrister specializing in planning law at Landmark Chambers and is the General Editor of the Journal of Planning & Environment Law. He is ranked as a leading practitioner in the field by Chambers & Partners and the Legal 500. Ashley has extensive experience acting for developers and planning authorities at planning inquiries and has acted for both claimants and defendants at all stages of planning litigation, including to the Supreme Court. As a member of the Attorney General's B Panel of Counsel, he also represents the UK Government in planning litigation in the courts.