The Consultation and Decision Process - What is Happening with Your Planning Application

When embarking on the journey of submitting a planning application, it's crucial to be aware of the meticulous process undertaken by your local planning authority (LPA). The success of your application hinges on a thorough understanding of this procedure.

Step 1: Initial Application Review

‍Upon submission, the LPA will first verify the completeness of your application. A valid application must include:

• The standard application form details.
• Mandatory national information requirements.
• A design and access statement, if applicable.

This initial check is to ensure all the critical components are present before further evaluation against local planning policies and regulations​​.

Alignment with Local Development Plan

‍Your application's fate is closely tied to the LPA's development plan, which serves as the cornerstone for decision-making. Unless there are exceptional circumstances, decisions are made in accordance with this plan. You can typically view the development plan through your local authority to understand better how your application aligns with it​​​​.

Step 2: Stakeholder Consultation

‍The consultation phase is integral to the process. The LPA reaches out to:

• Utility companies for infrastructure considerations.
• Local residents for community impact assessment.
• Other governmental departments for compliance with wider regulations.

This multi-faceted consultation aims to gather a diverse range of insights that could affect the decision on your application​​.

Step 3: Public Consultation Period

‍Prior to the decision, there is a period where the public can review and comment on the application. Reasons for community feedback often include concerns about:

• Increased traffic and its management.
• Privacy and potential overlook into private spaces.
• Environmental impacts, including sustainability and ecological effects.
• The influence of the proposed development on property values.
• Overall changes to the neighborhood's ambiance and quality of life.

The LPA takes these comments seriously, ensuring that community viewpoints are factored into the final decision.

Decision Outcomes

‍Post-consultation, the LPA will arrive at one of three decisions:

1. Approval of the application as is.
2. Conditional approval, requiring certain amendments.
3. Refusal of the application.

In any case, you will receive written notification detailing the reasons for the decision. If the decision is not in your favour, there is an opportunity to appeal to the Planning Inspectorate​​.

Timeline Considerations

‍The process is not swift, often spanning several months. Factors influencing the duration include the application's complexity and the council's current workload. Patience and a thorough understanding of this multi-step process are advised during this period.

Final Thoughts

‍Gaining planning permission is a complex but navigable process. By adhering to the LPA's development plan, engaging positively with the consultation phases, and preparing for a variable timeline, applicants can enhance the prospects of a favourable outcome.

For more detailed information on each step of the planning application process and to view your LPA's development plan, visit the Planning Portal's comprehensive guide on How Applications are Processed​​.