Commenting on an Application

How to comment

You can make comments on-line. Use this link to search for a planning application. You will be able to view the application forms, plans and documents and find out whether or not the period allowed for comments has expired.

If you feel that the proposal will affect you, tell us why. We will consider your views when we decide the application.

The easiest and quickest way to make comments is on-line. However, you can write to us by letter or send us a fax. Use the link from this page for our contact details. If you are writing, please include the following at the top of your message or letter:

• your name, address and telephone number;
• the planning application number;
• the site address and the proposal description; and
• whether you would to speak if the application is one which may be considered by the Development Control Committee.

Please note that all comments we receive are available for public inspection and copying.

Click here to find out more about how we make decisions.

Petitions

If many people share your views about a planning application, you can organise a petition. Each page of the petition should clearly state what the application is for and the reasons for objecting to it or supporting it. It should clearly list names and addresses of the people signing it. It is better to have a short petition from residents who will actually be affected by an application than a long one signed by people who would not be directly affected.

The types of comments you can make

Your comments must be about the application and planning matters. For example, objecting because of loss of value to your property is not a valid planning reason. Our case officer can advise you on whether or not your concerns are planning related.

How to get help

Contact us if you have any questions about anything to do with development control. Use the links from this page to find out how to contact us or to view details of applications we have received.

You may find it helpful to discuss your concerns with someone who is not employed by the council, such as a solicitor or a planning professional. The Royal Town Planning Institute provides a free Planning Aid service where you can talk to an independent planning professional about planning related matters. Use this link to find out more about Planning Aid. The government's Planning Portal web site provides information about the planning system. Use this link to find out more.