Every application passes through a fairly well-defined sequence of stages in its lifecycle.
- Firstly, if necessary, the applicant will consult the planning office for advice. After deciding on the type of application required, the applicant obtains the appropriate forms and completes them. The applicant will also need to produce plans and other documents to show details of the design, etc., where necessary before submitting the application, along with the correct fee.
- Many of the applications we receive are initially incomplete, e.g. missing plans, missing information, incorrect fee, etc. The process of checking the application is usually referred to as validation. If the application is found to be invalid, then the applicant must supply any missing items or modify the application where necessary, before the application can be progressed further.
- Once a valid application has been accepted, an acknowledgement will be sent. The application is publicised and consultations take place. The application is examined and assessed by officers until a decision is finally reached, either by officers or by the Planning Committee.
- If permission is refused, the applicant may seek advice on alternatives, modify the proposal and/or submit a new application. Often, a re-application can be submitted free of charge. It is also possible to appeal against a refusal.
- If permission is granted, the applicant can start work within the specified time limit, but they must make sure that the work conforms to the agreed plans and complies with any specified conditions. Failure to do this would invalidate the permission.
- The details of each application are logged in a database (see Planning Application Records) and updated at various stages, so that the application's progress can easily be traced and monitored. Some of the basic details are made available online - see Search Applications Online.
The process is illustrated in a flowchart, as follows:
SEE ALSO: What is Planning Permission? | How to Apply | Existing Applications | Search Applications Online | Publicity & Consultations | Commenting on an Application | Planning Committee | Appeals