What is Trade Watch Alerts?
Trade Watch Alerts helps trades and building businesses explore selected extension-related planning opportunities across covered parts of the Thames Valley and Home Counties. It provides planning intelligence, not quotation requests or guaranteed contracts.
Can I try the app before paying?
Yes. You can create a free account to explore the preview. Identifying project information is withheld in the free view. Paid access unlocks available full details. See plans and access for the distinction, and check current prices and terms in the app.
Does a planning record mean someone needs a builder?
Not necessarily. It shows proposed development, not whether a contractor has been appointed or a quotation is wanted. You still need to assess fit, check the current record and establish the circumstances through an appropriate channel.
Which areas are covered?
Start with the coverage page, then check current app results for the councils that matter to your business. Configured coverage and current source availability are different: a source may have no relevant results, be delayed or be temporarily unavailable.
How often are the website totals updated?
The panel is designed to refresh automatically from the app's public, sanitised feed. Its timestamp and status explain the freshness of the available snapshot. Updating the display does not create new records or guarantee that each council has published new information. If the feed is unavailable, the panel says so rather than inventing totals.
Why does the website hide addresses and references?
The public panel is a summary of activity, not a public directory of identifiable projects. It excludes exact addresses, application references, personal names and contact details. Use the app's appropriate access level to review the available project information.
Are all documents and contact details available?
No. Availability depends on what source councils publish and what is available for each record. Paid access does not guarantee that every project has every field or document.
Can I use public contact details for marketing?
Do not assume that publication provides permission. The rules depend on the intended use, recipient and channel. Check the ICO's guidance and obtain suitable advice where necessary. This website does not provide legal advice.
Where do I pay or manage my account?
Accounts, current paid plans and checkout are handled in the Trade Watch Alerts app. The marketing website does not take card details or create a separate subscription.
Does the service guarantee work?
No. Planning records are a starting point for research. They do not guarantee a budget, construction date, suitable opportunity, response or contract. Our planning leads guide explains how to use the information realistically.
Where should I start?
Read how the app works, check your area and explore the free preview. If it fits your business, use the weekly review guide to build a repeatable research process.