Before I begin this blog, I want to preface: It’s true, homes will sell regardless; which is why my blog is aimed more towards planning applications for developers, property investors, builders and architects. As this is a main pain point across the UK, REGARDLESS of who you are.
Having said this however, some marketing teams already value quality content on large scale development sites, compared to others who just wait for the money to come in naturally.
Below, the main section (Part A) and case studies highlight the benefit to planning applications, and I have briefly included marketing on large developments (Part B)….for those who value it 😉
Drones & CGIs for Planning Apps (Part A)
Why CGI 3D Model Renders + Drone Aerials Are a Game-Changer for Planning, Off-Plan Sales & Marketing
You’ve got a vision. Maybe it’s a single new-build home tucked into the countryside, or a multi-unit development on a suburban plot. But getting that vision across – to planners, neighbours, or even potential buyers – is often half the battle ✍️
That’s where the combo of drone aerials and CGI renders steps in. It’s the smart, visual shortcut that turns confusion into clarity – and objections into approvals ✅
Make Planning Committees Say “Yes” Faster 🗣️
Let’s be real: planning applications can get delayed for all sorts of reasons – unclear site drawings, lack of context, or neighbours raising concerns about how a build might affect them.
When you pair accurate aerial drone photography with a realistic CGI, it changes the game. You’re not just showing lines on a plan. You’re helping planning officers and neighbours – who really only understand layman’s building terms – to actually see:
- What the finished property will look like in the real landscape
- How it relates to surrounding buildings, trees, and terrain
- That it won’t block someone’s view, invade privacy, or ruin the look of the area
Case Study 1: Planning Win in Wales 🏆
On a project in rural Wales, our CGI client reached out (commissioned from architect) and had me capture aerials of the existing site, capturing the surrounding farmland. From here they embedded a 3D CGI render model of the proposed home changes, directly into my image.
The result?
Planners could SEE instantly & understand the impact of the project from above – without needing a site visit.
Even the neighbours, initially hesitant, ended up supporting the proposal because they saw clearly that it wouldn’t affect them 🥳
The planning app went through first time. No delays. No drama.
You Have to Shift Neighbours from “No Thanks” to “That Looks Great”
Whether you’re adding a new home to an existing plot or converting a site for commercial use, you’ve likely faced neighbour objections. And more often than not, it’s because they don’t really know what you’re offering.
Aerial CGIs completely bridge that gap. When people can see exactly how a building will sit on the land next to them, what it looks like, how it blends into the local environment, and how it WON’T affect them – they’re more likely to support the project.
Case Study 2: North London – Land Split 👷🏼♂️
A customer introduced to us through our client (the CGI team hired by the Architect) was looking to split their existing land plot and build a second home.
The drone imagery I provided captured the existing home and land, and the CGI showed the proposed addition. It helped paint a crystal-clear picture of how the new home would fit in with the area and not affect any of the neighbours.
Initially, it’s true. Some of the neighbours had an issue with the proposal. After? ⬇️
No objections. No pushback. Another project smooth sailed through the application process for the customer. A* Job!
About Drone Work: (Good to Know Info)
A Simple, Affordable Investment That Can Make or Break a Project
A typical aerial CGI-ready project with me includes:
- A half-day on-site drone shoot
- Professional image grading and file organisation
- Uploading files ready for your CGI team
Projects in London or Hertfordshire are usually just under £450, and the return – whether that’s planning approval, buyer interest, or project momentum – is huge.
Why Me?
I’m a GVC CAA Trained and Approved Drone Pilot, insured up to £10M. I know how to fly safely, legally, and effectively – even in restricted zones like airport airspace. You don’t need to worry about permissions or aggravating neighbours. I’ve had my fair share and I’ve got it covered!
My content is known for being:
- Razor-sharp in detail
- Bright, accurate in exposure
- Colour-graded to professional standard
- Delivered quickly (ask any of my regular clients — speed is one of my trademarks)
When your CGI company needs imagery they can rely on, or when you’re ready to sell an idea that doesn’t exist yet – I’m here to help bring it to life.
Part B: Large-Scale Development Sites/Sales Off-Plan:
Secure Sales Before You Build
If you’re selling off-plan, you’re asking buyers to commit to something that doesn’t exist yet. And while floorplans and static CGIs help — aerial CGIs give the full picture:
- Where the home sits within the site
- Access points, landscaping, and amenities
- Views, elevation, and how light might hit the property
For larger developments — say 10, 20, or 50+ homes — aerial CGIs offer a powerful sales and marketing tool. They help your sales team secure deposits, market homes effectively, and build interest well before you’ve laid the last brick.
Got a site or planning proposal in the pipeline?
Let’s chat about how drone CGIs might be the key to unlocking your next approval!
📞 07392 184394
✉️ enquiries@avatarmediagroup.co.uk
🌐 www.avatarmediagroup.co.uk
Rob Siddle – Avatar Media Group
Connect on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-siddle-292a93196/
Follow on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/avatardrones/
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