Information on the planning application process

The process of dealing with a planning application is time consuming, in most cases requiring extensive consultation of statutory bodies and neighbours. It goes through several stages before a decision is made.

Government targets have been set for Local Planning Authorities to deal with applications. These are as follows: 13 weeks for majors and 8 weeks for minors and others

A simplified version of the process is listed below and you can download an easy to follow flowchart to aid your understanding too.

1. Receipt
Details of all applications received by the council are published on our website.

2. Validation
Applications are initially checked by a planning officer to confirm all the necessary information is included on which to make a decision. An acknowledgment will be issued or additional information requested. Once an application has been agreed as valid, a specific case officer will be allocated who will deal with the application throughout. Application forms and other supporting documents will also be published on the website at this stage

3. Consultation
The council is required to undertake extensive consultation on planning applications including other Council departments, (such as Highways, Environmental Health etc), Statutory Bodies (Southern Water, English Heritage, Environment Agency etc), local residents and Amenity Societies. You can submit comments on an application online via public access.

4. Report and Recommendation
Senior officers have the power to make 'delegated' decisions on smaller / non-contentious applications. However, some proposals will be reported to the planning and rights of way panel. The Agendas for committees are published 5 days in advance and the meetings are open to the public to attend. Follow the below link for more information about the Planning and Rights of Way panel.

5. Decision
Once a decision has been made, a formal decision letter will be issued to the applicant. In most cases where permission is granted, the decision letter will detail conditions that apply. A reason will be given for each condition. Any reasons for refusing an application will be given as well should that be needed.

Useful information regarding the process a planning application may go through is in the flowchart below and also can be found on the Planning Portal website link. Please also have a look at our own frequently asked questions page to help you.