The Planning Register
Local planning authorities are obliged to keep records of all planning applications that they deal with. These records, collectively known as "the Planning Register", include a log of all applications received, files containing the submitted forms and attachments, plus all decision notices issued.
Copies of current planning application details and recent Decision Notices are made available to members of the public on request. These can be viewed at the Customer Service Centre in the Town Hall.
Application Files
Each application is filed separately. Copies of the application forms, plans, drawings and all correspondence associated with the application are kept together in the file. Applications are numbered and filed sequentially and chronologically. Our records date back to 1947.
For each active application, i.e. those currently under consideration, a separate file containing copies of all the main items describing the proposal details is kept at the reception desk. These copies are made available within three working days of the application being validated (see the application & decision process). Members of the public may view these files on request. Please note that if you wish to view non-current files, it is advisable to contact the department beforehand to ensure that the relevant files are available.
Applications for the period 1974 to 1992 have been transferred to microfiche. Those from 1993 to 1996 have been scanned and the images stored on CD-ROM.
Database
Since 1997, details of each planning application have been recorded in a database which is updated daily. Application data covering the period 1974 to 1996 has been captured retrospectively.
We have made the post-1997 records available online so that you can search for an application and view the main details. See Search Applications Online.
Database Extracts
Some lists of applications, e.g. current applications and recent decisions, are produced periodically in PDF format and made available online. These can be viewed or downloaded.
Weekly lists of applications received can be viewed as part of the Search Applications Online facility.