Objecting to a permission/application

Pre-application

Before a planning application is submitted, an objector can find out more about a proposed development by making a request under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 or the Environmental Information Regulations 2004, SI 2004/3391. This may reveal pre-application discussions and correspondence between the relevant developer and local planning authority (LPA) which could be useful in preparing an objection. See Practice Note: Introduction to freedom of information.

Examining the application and letter of objection

A planning application is ‘validated’ once the LPA is satisfied that it complies with the relevant planning application requirements. Notices must then be published or served on specified persons to publicise the application. The period for making representations depends on the method of publicity and type of application. In England and Wales, the statutory period is generally 21 days from the display or service of a notice and 14 days from publication in a newspaper or on a website. Longer periods apply to certain applications, including applications accompanied by an environmental statement.

When preparing representations, objectors should bear in mind that the LPA must determine the...