FAQs

Promotion Agreements are the ‘go-to’ optimal legal structure for obtaining planning permissions, primarily because they are conflict-free and align the landowner’s and promoter’s interests from day one. The landowner is indemnified against all planning and professional costs. The financial risks lie entirely with the promoter. Once planning consent is secured, the land is sold on the open market through a transparent and competitive process, ensuring maximum value is achieved. This structure consistently delivers the best possible outcome for both parties.

There are no upfront costs for the landowner. The entire Promotion Agreement process is funded by the Promoter, including legal, technical and planning costs, which typically amount to hundreds of thousands of pounds. These costs are borne entirely at the Promoter’s risk. If planning permission is not obtained, the costs are abortive and the landowner has no financial loss or on-going liability.

The Promoter’s remuneration is a pre-agreed percentage of the net sale proceeds. As a result, the Promoter is incentivised to achieve the highest possible capital receipt for the landowner. This ensures that both parties are working towards the same, common goal from day one. Should the landowner wish to prioritise legacy and quality of design over maximising capital receipt, then this mechanism can also be accommodated.

A proactive and inclusive approach to community and stakeholder engagement is fundamental to securing planning permission. This will include regular meetings with key stakeholders, local consultation events and ongoing dialogue with the local authority. Early and meaningful engagement can significantly reduce delays, lower overall costs and minimise the risk of refusal or adverse appeal decisions, ultimately protecting the value of the land.

The landowner carries no financial risk. All planning, professional and promotion costs are covered by the Promoter. While the landowner will need independent legal advice when entering into a Promotion Agreement, these costs are also covered, ensuring that the process is straightforward and risk-free while maximising the potential return.

Yes, of course. Riva prides itself on the successful track record of its founder, Andy Wilkins. A detailed review of sites taken through the planning process that have now been delivered on-site, will stand up to forensic scrutiny and speak for itself. References can be provided upon request.