Processing an application
The planning application process
Once the planning application is submitted we will check it to ensure that the forms are properly completed and that all the required documents and the correct fee are included. We will then formally acknowledge the application and details of it will be entered onto the Statutory Planning Register. Once registered, all planning applications become public documents and may be inspected at the One Stop Planning and Building Control Desk, on request by the public. Or use our Online Planning Services, which allow you to search for planning applications from 1999 to present day, view drawings registered with us from 1 December 2005, view decision notices decided from 1 December 2005, comment on current applications, link to the Planning Portal to submit applications and lots more.
Timescale
We are set targets by the Government within which we are expected to deal with planning applications. For major applications, the target is 60% of applications decided within 13 weeks, for minor residential, commercial and industrial applications it is 65% in 8 weeks and for all other applications it is 80% applications in 8 weeks.
We have set ourselves higher targets. For all but major applications, if no decision is reached within eight weeks (the period for major applications is 13 weeks), the applicant may appeal to the Planning Inspectorate against the council's failure to determine the application. In practice, the council regularly makes nearly 90% of application decisions within the eight week period. However, more complex applications which necessitate consultations with outside bodies and organisations, and those applications which require amendment, are likely to take longer to be decided.
Delegated and Committee decisions
The Head of Planning Control has delegated powers to deal with a wide range of applications, including residential extensions, changes of use and advertisements.
Applications not dealt with under delegated powers are reported to fortnightly Planning (formerly Development Control) Committee meetings for decision. The Committee meets in the Council Chamber in the Town Hall. The meeting is open to the public and applicants and members of the public are allowed to speak in accordance with agreed procedures.
Notification to Interested Parties
The council consults the occupiers of land next to an application site usually by letter but sometimes by the display of a site notice on the land and invites written comments. All letters that are received as a result of such consultations become public documents under the Local Government (Access to Information) Act 1985, and are available for public inspection.
Public Advertisements
Advertisements in the local press and on site are required for some types of applications, generally for the larger developments, and those which would affect the character of a Conservation Area or the setting of a Listed Building.
