Planning Permission

The NPPF (2024) and the Introduction of Grey Belt

The December 2024 version of the NPPF introduced the concept of Grey Belt as a consideration during the determination of relevant planning applications. The Government stated further guidance would be issued on the interpretation of this matter. This document is still awaited.

The Council requires an understanding of Government’s stance and guidance before making any definitive planning decision or providing pre-application advice where Grey Belt matters have been raised. The Council is considering its position and is currently seeking clarification on the definition of Grey Belt to ensure the interpretation the Council ultimately adopts is sound and coherent.

On this basis, the Council will not be able to respond to pre-application enquiries or proceed to determine planning applications where that matter is central to the consideration of the proposal. We will continue to review this position.

Normally if you wish to develop land or buildings you will have to apply to us for planning permission.

Before you apply please discuss your proposals with us. You will be able to get key advice from us that will to help you save time and money by getting your planning application right first time. We call this pre-application advice and it is highly recommended.

Development includes building, engineering, mining or other operations in, on, over or under land, or changing the way a building or piece of land is used, by anyone.

Some small scale development may not need permission – this is called permitted development. For example in certain circumstances small house extensions, garages, porches, garden sheds, boundary walls and changes to businesses may not need planning permission.

Please note: Due to the continued high volume of submitted applications, there may be a delay in the assessment and determination of planning applications. It may take longer than the statutory 8 or 13 weeks to determine your application but we will endeavour to determine your application as soon as possible. You may receive a request from the Case Officer to agree to an extended period of time to determine the application.

The planning service is similarly experiencing high levels of demand for pre-application advice and due to this there may be a delay in our assessment and response to these. We will advise you if this is the case. Any potential delay will vary depending on the nature and complexity of the proposal. Please be assured that Case Officers are working extremely hard to progress these as quickly as possible.

Electric Vehicle Charging Point Installation for Council Tenants

Guidance on the installation of vehicle charging points (EV) for Council property tenants

Pre-application advice and charges

We can help you by providing advice prior to you submitting a formal planning application.

Submit a planning application

Calculate your fees and submit your application, Make sure you include everything that's required!

FAQs: The planning application process

Frequently asked questions about the application process from establishing if you need planning permission to timeframes for planning application decisions

Work on listed buildings

If you want to do any kind of work on any part of a listed building you may need Listed Building Consent from us

Work in conservation areas

In conservation areas normal permitted development rights may not apply and you may need a special type of planning permission called Conservation Area Consent

Street naming and numbering

If you own a premises you can make an application to change the postcode, get a new postcode, street name or premises number.

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