*Bob* Jeremy have you had actual experience of doing any of this? I have, I totally disagree there is no need to consult your neighbours it could backfire much better to just deal with the planners let your architect deal with the planning, avoid all communication with neighbours point them towards the council. If not you will do is inflame the situation. That's what happened to us now I would never discussing anything with any neighbours what business is it of theirs? If I had my time again and they ask what I'm doing I'd say ask the council planning department and leave me alone and when it comes to the actual building work let them deal with the builders and the inspectors etc .. Neighbours are nothing but trouble. I would now never advise opening up to the stranger?s next door complete madness. Learned our lessons the hard way never again