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How and when planning decisions are made

What happens after you submit your planning application, including how and when we make decisions and how long it may take to process your application.

We approve (sometimes with conditions) or refuse applications after we've:

How long it takes to make a decision

The length of time it takes to assess your application and make a decision can vary. This can be because:

  • your application is more complex than the average application
  • we have a higher than usual number of applications to process 

Current planning application processing times

You can also submit an enquiry to find out the progress of your application.

Ask for a planning application progress update

Consultation period

When an application is registered, it will be made public and people will be able to view and comment on the proposal. 

We will publicise the application by writing to the immediate neighbours of the proposed development site. We may display site notices in certain circumstances, for larger developments or where the address of land is unclear.

Site visits

We will only visit a site where it is essential to do so. The case officer will work with you on alternative ways of getting the information we need to deal with the application. Please submit photographs of the site and surrounding area with your application. 

Who makes the decision

A planning officer usually makes a decision on your application. In some cases it may be up to a council committee. This process is set by a scheme of delegation. 

If you are planning to speak at a Planning Application Committee meeting, our guidance note may be of use.

Go to the planning application documents section to download the:

  • scheme of delegation to officers for planning
  • Planning Application Committee public speaking guidance note

Decision notices

We will notify you (or your agent) of our decision by email. 

Search applications and view decisions

Planning decisions and how long they last 

Planning permission normally lasts 3 years. We can vary this period where appropriate, for example, a large phased development. If you do not start work within that time then the permission will expire.

You must comply with any conditions attached to the permission. Some conditions may need further details to be submitted before the work starts. There is no timescale for the completion of the works once permission is secure.