Before we make a decision about a planning application, we usually notify neighbours adjoining the site by letter. Some applications are also publicised by site notice and / or advertised in the News Shopper; these include applications which:
- Affect a listed building;
- Affect a conservation area;
- Depart from our local development plan; or
- Affect a public right of way;
A 21 day period is normally given for comments. During this time you can view the application online. There are a number of ways you can comment on an application which are explained below. Please note that any correspondence received in relation to a planning application can be viewed by the public, including the applicant. We display letters of representation on our website (with signatures, email address and phone numbers redacted). We are unable to consider anonymous objections.
Please note also that due to resource implications the council does not notify applicants, agents, neighbours or any other parties of expected decision dates for applications. You will need to contact us to find out when an application might be determined, or alternatively check on the planning applications search service.
Ways to comment on a planning application
- You can comment using the planning applications search service by selecting 'Submit comments' at the top of the page showing details of the application upon which you wish to comment. This will ask for your address if you live in the borough so your objection can be properly considered. Objections without an address cannot normally be given any weight in the decision.
- If you do not have access to the internet, you can write to us at Planning, Civic Centre, Stockwell Close, BR1 3UH quoting the relevant planning reference number, and send by post or deliver in person.
Please note that legally we must allow the public to see any comments we receive about planning applications. This means that we cannot treat any comments as confidential and they will be displayed on our website(with signatures, email address and phone numbers redacted).
Issues which we cannot consider when determining an application
Comments received must relate to planning matters which include such issues as impact on lighting or highway safety. The following types of concerns are not generally planning considerations and cannot be taken into account:
- Loss of value to property
- Commercial competition
- Loss of a view
- Disturbances during building work
- Land ownership disputes
- Private deeds or covenants
- Where development has already started
- Matters covered by other legislation including licensing or gambling
What we will do with your comments
- Make sure your comments are recorded
- Consider you comments when making a decision
- If there are significant amendments to the application we will notify you again and give you another opportunity to comment
We will normally accept representations up to the day of decision even if the consultation period has expired, however representations received after a decision is made, even if posted before that date, cannot be considered. Representations received after a committee report has been published will normally be summarised verbally at the committee meeting.
If you wish to comment on a planning appeal, you should write directly to the Planning Inspectorate.
Do you need help?
If you are housebound, need an interpreter, or have a disability which makes it difficult to view or understand the plans, please let us know and we will do our best to help.