Frequently asked questions

Planning 

Q. Do I need planning permission?

Planning law is very complex. Most development or change of use requires planning permission, however we understand that this can be a little time consuming. Guidelines can be found on the Planning Portal (external link to a UK Government website). Alternatively, planning advice can be found on our own web pages.

If you are looking to make changes to your home we have created the downloadable Householder Development Questionnaire which you can fill out and we will be able to let you know if you need permission. 

If in any doubt contact your local team on 01225 394041 who will be happy to advise you, though due to the complexity of law and regulations we may have to ask you to fill out the Householder Development Questionnaire.

New building work will often need to comply with the Building Regulations. These prescribe minimum standards for health and safety.

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Q. Which application form do I need?

If you are using the Planning Portal (external link) then this will automatically choose the correct application as part of the process. The Planning Portal website provides the facility to submit a planning application online. However if you are looking to make the application by downloading one of our forms then follow this link to the forms.

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Q. How do I make a planning application?

Please call us on 01225 394041 and we will send you the correct application forms. Alternatively, you can submit an online application via the Planning Portal (external link). A selection of downloadable forms can also be found on our web page 'Making a Planning Application'.

We encourage developers/applicants to seek pre-application advice with officers to identify any potential issues prior to formal submission and check our Standard details required for applications web page.

Please note information provided on the application form and accompanying drawings and documents will be made available on the internet.

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Q. How much does it cost?

The Householder Planning Application costs £150. Guidance on cost for the Full Planning Application and other types of planning applications can be found on our Fees web page.

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Q. How long does it take?

Planning Services aims to complete the majority of applications within 8 weeks of receiving a complete and valid application. Large or complex applications may take longer. Further information regarding the application process can be found on the Planning Portal website.

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Q. What happens to a planning application?

Once we have received a valid application with a correct fee then it is registered on the Council's computer system and allocated to a Planning Officer for processing. After registration the stages an application goes through are:

• Confirm registration with a letter to agent/applicant
• The Council publicises and consults on the application
• The application is then considered by either the planning Officer or the Planning committee and in most cases a decision is reached

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Q. How do I find out about other people's planning applications?

An advertisement is placed in the local newspaper. Letters are sent to those closest to the proposed development, inviting comments. In some cases, a site notice will be posted close to the application site. You can also search for applications or browse the weekly list via the Online Planning Applications link below:

Online Planning Applications (Public Access link)

Receive details of planning applications in your area, register your postcode with PlanningFinder (external link) and received free email notifications of any planning applications near you as soon as they happen. Please note: this link will take you to a website not controlled by this Authority.

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Q. How do I comment on planning applications?

Comments on current planning applications are welcomed and can be sent in writing to the appropriate case officer or by email or fax. In all cases please quote the application reference number. Alternatively, you can submit comments via the Online Planning link:

Online Planning Applications (Public Access link)

Please note your comments will be viewable on our website as forming part of the available application documentation. Please note that due to the processes involved, there is likely to be a delay of several days after receipt before any such correspondence is displayed.

IF YOU DO NOT WISH TO HAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS AND/OR TELEPHONE NUMBER DISPLAYED PLEASE DO NOT USE THE FORM IN PUBLIC ACCESS. INSTEAD, PLEASE SEND YOUR COMMENTS AS A SEPARATE EMAIL TO THE ADDRESS GIVEN BELOW WITH YOUR LETTER (INCLUDING YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS) AS AN ATTACHMENT.

Unfortunately we are unable to acknowledge receipt of your comments, due to the number of applications made each year.

Please ensure that any comments made are submitted within the 21 day consultation period (as representations received after the determination of any application cannot be considered). Comments must be based on planning matters and need to relate to the proposal.

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Q. Why has my application been referred to committee?

In certain cases the application may have to be referred to the Council's Development Control Committee for determination. This is made up of elected members of the Council (Councillors). This action can be taken under a variety of circumstances that can include:

• If the proposal is contrary to the Council's adopted planning policies
• If the local Parish / Town Council or Ward Member requests it

This review process enables the Council to consider all potentially sensitive applications and any issues that are in the public interest in a transparent and open manner.

Follow the link for more information on the delegated scheme.

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Q. What happens to applications that have been referred to Committee / Can I speak at the Committee?

Applicants and registered objectors will be informed in writing if their application has been referred to Committee, and this will include details of the venue and time of the meeting (which can also be found on the website). This is discussed at Committee and the following people can also speak about the applications:

• Parish/Town Council representative(s) - 3 mins max per proposal
• Objector(s) - 3 mins max per proposal
• The applicant, agent, supporter(s) - 3 mins max per proposal

Have your say on planning applications at Committee.

In most cases the decision is made there and then. All applicants and objectors/supporters will receive a letter confirming the decision.

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Q. How do I appeal against a planning decision?

If you think the Council's decision is unreasonable then you can appeal to the Secretary of State (via the Planning Inspectorate (external link)). Appeals must be made within 6 months of the date of the notice of decision (8 weeks in the case of decisions on Advert Applications); however appeals are intended as a last resort only. They can take several months to decide. It is often quicker to discuss with the planning officer whether changes to your proposal would make it more acceptable.

You can contact the Planning Inspectorate by the web (external link) or in writing:

The Planning Inspectorate, Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol, BS1 6PN

If you would like further information about the appeals process we have a simple guide available, however the Planning Inspectorate has a wealth of information to help answer almost every question you might have.

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Q. What other planning services will I be charged for?

The authority is unable to continue to cover the costs of certain services without making the appropriate charge to the customer. These charges will be reviewed annually. Further details can be found within discretionary charges.