Pre-application advice

We offer a pre-application advice service for most types of planning application. The charges for the service vary depending on the type and complexity of the proposal please see our schedule of fees. We are unable to negotiate on planning applications once received and validated. 

Householder proposals

In respect of householder proposals (i.e. extensions to dwellings, outbuildings and other development within the garden), the advice will be in writing and will include guidance on the planning application process, the planning policies relevant to the scheme and the principal considerations in determining the impact on your neighbours. Whilst any obvious conflict with the council's planning policies will be identified, it will not be possible to advise on the likely success of a planning application.

Other general advice on planning matters, including your rights to extend your property without the need to obtain planning permission from the council, can be obtained without charge from the Planning Portal

Residential schemes of 1-9 dwellings, commercial/ other floorspace of 1-999m² and other minor proposals

There will be an opportunity for you to meet a planning officer to discuss your proposal. Where necessary, a site visit and technical consultation with other sections of the Council will be undertaken to enable more detailed written advice to be given. This will include guidance on the planning process, the information needed to validate the application, relevant planning policies, technical requirements, likely timescales and informal/without prejudice comments on the scheme.

Major development proposals

In the case of major development proposals (i.e. residential development of 10 or more units/on sites of 0.5 hectares+ , other developments of 1000m² or more/on sites of 1.0 hectares+, mineral extraction or EIA development), a site visit and technical consultation with other parties will be undertaken as a matter of course. The matters suitable for discussion will include: 

  • information on the relevant policies and other planning requirements 
  • provision of advice regarding the procedure, consultation and estimated timescale in regard to the process of the application
  • the required information for making a valid planning application 
  • indication of the likely requirement for contributions from the developer, such as levels of affordable housing, highways improvements and health and education payments
  • informal and without prejudice comments and guidance on content, construction and presentation of an application likely to satisfy the council's policies
  • possible planning conditions should permission be granted. 

Arranging pre -application advice

Please complete the appropriate application form, following the instructions in the accompanying notes. Once the form is received, you will be contacted to confirm the procedure and the relevant charge.

In order to ensure that the advice service is properly administered, it will not be possible to negotiate on planning applications once they have been received and validated.

Please note that any advice given by council officers for pre-application enquiries does not constitute a formal response or decision of the council with regard to the granting of planning permission in the future. Any views or opinions expressed are given in good faith, and to the best of ability, without prejudice to the formal consideration of any application, which will be the subject of public consultation and ultimately decided by the council.