There is no statutory timeframe for pre-application advice. The amount of time it takes to hear back after seeking pre-application advice depends on the LPA you are seeking the advice from. Some local planning authority branches commit to responding to you within 28 days, others allow a longer timeframe. To feel secure in the pre-application advice process, it may help to have a town planning consultant by your side.
Having an expert offer you pre-application assistance means that you can receive all the planning advice you need, get your planning appraisal and feasibility study completed with a professional, and receive your pre-application statement. Once all of these are done correctly, your planning consultant will help you with the pre-application submission and will remain by your side to help during discussions with the LPA.