Development Control
Development Control is a process which regulates development and uses of land. It involves the consideration of planning applications, the monitoring of development as it takes place, enforcement action where unacceptable breaches of control have occurred, and the provision of information and advice about general planning matters and individual proposals. It is a process governed by law, and can be complex.
Charter for Development Control
A Charter for Development Control has been produced by Darlington Borough Council in the light of a guide prepared by the National Planning Forum in consultation with Central Government. It also builds on the principles set out in the Local Government Association Planning, Enforcement and The Planning Users Concordats, which the Council endorse.
The purpose of the Charter is to explain how planning applications are dealt with and the standards of service that the Council wishes to achieve. The Development Control Charter is also closely linked to the aims and objectives which are set out in the Council's Best Value Performance Plan, and should help to ensure that the Development Control service is delivered in a way which meets local needs and priorities, according to standards which everyone can understand.
A charter for development control [pdf document]