Apply for planning permission FAQs
Click a question to reveal the answer.
Q: When do I need planning permission for something?
Q: Why do I need to apply for planning permission and building control consent separately?
Q: What are permitted development rights?
Q: What scale should I use for my plans/drawings?
Q: What sort of electronic formats do you accept?
Q: Can I submit electronic files of any size?
Q: Can I submit my application to you using the Planning Portal website?
Q: How can I avoid unnecessary delays in processing my application?
Q: After I submit my application, how long before I can expect to hear from you?
Q: How can I find out how my application is progressing?
Q: Will a planner contact me to discuss the proposal?
Q: Will someone need to visit the site?
Q: What are the key dates in progressing my application?
Q: Who do you consult about my application?
Q: Will I be able to amend the planning application?
Q: Who is responsible for making a decision on my application?
Q: How is a planning application determined?
Q: When can I expect to get a decision on my planning application?
Q: How does the planning applications committee work?
Q: Should I lobby Councillors?
Q: What happens if the application looks likely to be refused?
Q: If I am not happy with the decision what can I do?
Q: What policies do planners use to assess applications?
Q: I need to submit a 'Design and access statement', what is it?
Design and Access Statements are aimed at improving the design and accessibility of all new buildings and public spaces. Not only will the Statement facilitate a clearer, more structured assessment of a planning application by the Council, it will also provide useful visual material to aid public consultation.
Crucially, the Statement should illustrate how the design of the proposal has taken into account its surroundings, how it will improve the environment and accessibility. Access is established as a fundamental planning issue owing to the duties imposed by the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) and the need to have an accessible built environment. Disabled access is often addressed far too late in the development control process, so considering access should be undertaken at all stages.
Details of Design and Access Statements can be downloaded from the Design Council website.
Q: Can I discuss my application with you before I submit it?
