Public involvement in the planning application process

There are three main types of publicity - a notice in the local newspaper, notices displayed on or near the application site and individual letters to addresses in the locality.  An application may be subject to one or more of these.  Consultees normally have 21 days from the date of the site/press notice or consultation letter to send representations to the Local Planning Authority.  In order to be taken into account, representations must be submitted in writing, but can be sent in either letter form or via the Council’s web site.

A planning application may be decided either by the Head of Planning under delegated powers, or by a planning committee. In either case, the Local Planning Authority takes into account representations received when making planning decisions. Representations received are outlined in planning reports and specifically addressed before decisions are made. If the application is to be determined by a planning committee, anyone who has made representations will be invited to the meeting with an opportunity to make their views known. Council procedures allow for objectors, applicants and supporters to speak at the meeting, subject to certain requirements. The details are outlined on a leaflet available from the Council.