Planning appeals

Not every development proposal is suitable or sustainable for its local surroundings. Development should cause minimal harm to the environment, and issues of public importance must be considered.

This means we may refuse some applications. About 1 in 5 applications are refused.

We encourage pre-application discussions about proposed developments. These try to find an acceptable form of development. There are always cases, however, where agreement cannot be achieved.

During the pre-application process we try to negotiate improvements to proposals. Once an application is submitted there is limited time to negotiate more improvements.

If we consider a minor amendment of an application would overcome a potential reason for refusal, we will normally offer an opportunity to make the necessary changes, as long as there is time for the change to be made.

If it would significantly change the nature of the proposal, it is best to leave it to a new application. If a refusal is made on a point of principle – for example, because of conflict with green belt policy – no amendment may be acceptable.

Sometimes we grant permission but subject to conditions that the applicant may find unacceptable. In those cases, there is a right of appeal against the conditions. The arrangements for such an appeal are the same as those for a refusal of permission.