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Planning and building control

• Planning search online allows you to view and comment on current planning applications deposited at each of our area offices. You can search by any number of means but the most common is address (including postcode), application number and applicant name.
• The householders’ guide is specifically for customers thinking about extending or altering their property. It gives a step-by-step guide to the main process involved in seeking permission and links to the Planning Portal 3D interactive guides, which answer a lot of the frequently asked questions about this type of development.
• Planning policy is specifically aimed at professional customers who are familiar with the planning process, but want access to the more detailed County specific guidance covering development proposals. The site also links to the Planning Portal ‘professionals’ guide’ giving access to other resources including national policy and legislation.
• Planning application forms and fees gives you access to the forms and guidance notes that you will need when submitting your application to us. This section will help you to identify which planning forms you will need for your project.
• Planning guidance documents and leaflets is the page where you can view and download guidance publications appropriate for your application.
• Planning committee and meetings describes the function of the four area committees and the processes involved when determining planning applications. There are certain rules governing attendance and speaking at committees in support or against planning applications. The general guidance is contained on this page. The page also links you to the upcoming committee meetings where certain planning applications will be decided by that committee.
• Planning Useful Links provides access to other planning related web sites and guidance.
• Strategic planning committee as well as the area committees there is a strategic planning committee that deals with major developments that could have an impact on local residents

businesses and visitors.

We approve or refuse planning applications for development and make sure that planning controls are implemented throughout the process, from plans examination to implementation on site.

The primary function of the service is to make planning decisions in the interests of the local community. We guide development to the most appropriate places and make sure that the design, appearance and layout of proposals are suitable for their surroundings.

It is our hope that the following web pages will assist you in answering most of the questions you may have about the process and both your and our respective roles within it.

Last updated: 3 February 2010