Finding out about applications

The Council will publicise application in a number of ways. 

You can view plans at the Town Hall and Bourne Hall during normal office hours.  A planning officer is available at the Town Hall to answer questions and explain proposals between 10am and 11am, Monday to Friday,

Making Comments

Comments should be submitted in written form either by letter or online.  You normally have 21 days from the date of validation to comment.  Please quote the planning reference number as well as the address.

You may wish to support an application, suggest changes to overcome any concerns or raise objections. 

We welcome your interest.

What happens to your comments

Any written comments will be placed on the application file. 

Letters will not be acknowledged but you may telephone to check they have been received. 

As required by the Freedom of Information Act written comments are open for public inspection or copying. 

We have to weigh many considerations when deciding whether to grant or refuse permission.  Your views will be carefully considered but may not override other factors.

What happens after the Council has made a decision

You can telephone (quoting the application reference number or address) or look online to find out what the Council has decided.

Only the applicant has a right of appeal so it is important that you voice any concerns before a decision is taken by the Council.

However, if you consider that the Council's decision was flawed, for example because inadequate consideration was given to a relevant factor, you may make a formal complaint through the Council's procedure. 

If you are not satisfied with the response having exhausted the Council's internal procedures you may take your complaints to the Local Government Ombudsman.

If you were notified of the application or have submitted written comments we will let you know if the applicant appeals.  We will let the Planning Inspectorate have copies of your letters.

Once work is under way you should let us know if you believe that it has not been carried out in accordance with the approved plans.  We will check the situation and tell you what we are able to do.

You can find out about current applications and submit comments by viewing the online planning system.