planning consultant
A firm which provides expertise in guiding a construction project through the planning process.
A planning consultant is a specialist who provides guidance at the initial stages of a project, including securing of planning permission and coordinating the input of consultants including architects, structural engineers and environmental consultants.
The consultant guides the early planning stage and coordinates specialist contributions. Securing planning permission is one part of that work; coordination among the design and engineering advisers is also included.
Project management represents the owner in liaison with construction and design firms. Planning consultancy identifies the specialist guidance at the initial project stages, rather than construction work carried out on the site.