If you are thinking about altering or adding to your property you need to consult your local planning department. By using the Pre Application Service we can advise you on whether your proposals need planning permission and also how to go about applying if required. Even if the proposal does not require permission it is best to get this advice from the council in writing as this can prevent future problems for example when coming to sell your house.

Most developments will probably require permission and to do this will involve supply us with application forms and other relevant documents sufficient to describe your proposals.

• you will need to complete the relevant application forms (the council will usually require four copies)
• you will need to complete an ownership certificate and declaration.
• you may need to serve notice on your neighbours
• you will need to supply drawings, plans and elevations of the proposal (again four sets will be required)
• you will have to pay the relevant fee. (Note Fees Change 6th April 08)
• all required forms are available to download from this website or can be filled in electronically at the Planning Portal Website
• (the above list is indicative and not exhaustive)

Once the planning department have your application this will be checked thoroughly during a process called “Registration”. Any problems with the application will then be notified to you so that you can amend or correct the application.

Once registered the planning department then has a period of eight weeks to determine the application and to decide whether to grant or refuse the application. For major developments the period is thirteen weeks but this usually involves applications beyond the scope of individual members of the public.

It is possible to appoint a Planning Agent to act on your behalf during this process and these can be found in the yellow pages. Be aware though that the agent will also charge you for their services.