Advice on (retail) permits
Services
When acquiring or leasing (retail) real estate, the permitting process is often complex and fragmented — involving a range of regulations and procedures that are not always easy to navigate.
It is therefore not always obvious where to start or how to translate these rules into a concrete, workable file. Moreover, not every project automatically requires a (new) permit — the historical permitted status of a building or site often offers more possibilities than it appears at first sight.
Is the location non-compliant with zoning? Do specific urban planning regulations apply? Are the correct (environmental) permits in place? Is the property protected as built heritage? What about mobility and parking pressure?
These factors largely determine the feasibility of a retail project.
A successful permitting process requires not only a legally sound file, but also a strategic approach and close coordination with all parties involved — from owners and investors to authorities and local residents.
Licentius guides retailers, property owners, brokers and investors through:
- Feasibility analysis of (retail) real estate developments:
Insight into the legal and spatial context, including the existing permitted status - Consultation with authorities and stakeholders:
Preliminary discussions with permitting and advisory bodies - Strategy for the permit application:
Determining the most efficient approach — with an eye for existing rights and opportunities - Preparation of the permit file:
Coordination and development of a complete application file - Guidance and follow-up of permits:
From submission through to decision, including optimisations where needed
Schedule an introductory conversation.
Approach
The route of a permit application
Planning, retail, mobility and sometimes heritage: the process is fragmented. Licentius keeps the threads together and aligns all parties, including the permitting authority.
Feasibility
Legal and spatial context, including the existing permitted situation.
Consultation
Preliminary meetings with the permitting and advisory bodies.
Strategy
The most efficient approach, taking existing rights into account.
Application
Coordination and preparation of a complete application.
Follow-up
From submission to decision, with adjustments where needed.
The added value
A building often offers more possibilities than you think. A long procedure then becomes shorter, or turns out to be unnecessary.
Who we help
Choose your starting point
Retailer
You want to grow your store
A new location, a different product range or more square metres: each time the question is whether the permit allows it.
- New branch or relocation
- Change or extend the product range
- Downsize the store for a subtenant
Owner
Your property is getting a new use
A change of tenant or a renovation depends on what is permitted on the property. That is what we check first.
- New tenant with a different product range
- Extend or reconfigure
- Know the permit status of the property
Developer/investor
You want certainty before you buy or build
The value of retail property partly depends on the permitted categories and floor area. An upfront analysis prevents surprises.
- Feasibility before purchase
- Check permitted categories and m²
- Extend or rebuild a site