The Council, through its powers as a Local Planning Authority, has a duty to ensure that any new development of land and/or buildings – ranging from adding an extension or a conservatory to your home, to the building of shopping centres, housing estates and office blocks – is undertaken in a sympathetic manner that protects residents' amenity and the environment. Town planning therefore acts to control inappropriate developments and facilitate good schemes in the interest of the whole community.
The Development Management section of the Department deals with applications for planning permission. Please see this section for information on the planning application process.
The Council, through its Planning Enforcement section, is also responsible for checking the progress of building work once it has started and ensuring that development is built in accordance with the plans and any conditions imposed. Planning enforcement also has a role in investigating complaints where development or activity is being undertaken without permission.
Anyone wanting to carry out new development is required to obtain the correct permissions. Advisory leaflets are available on this website or from the Council Offices. Personal guidance can be obtained from the planning department to help those who find the process daunting.
In addition, building work must comply with the Building Regulations and a separate Building Control application will normally be required.
The Planning Department comprises the following sections:
Development Management
Enforcement
Conservation
Landscape and Countryside
Trees and Woodlands
Planning Policy