Decision

Read the decision carefully, because an odd word can change the emphasis and meaning of the decision.Applications are normally either refused or granted.

Refused

If the application is refused, the reasons for refusal will be stated on the decision notice. This decision can be appealed only within three months of the decision date or an amended application, which attempts to address the reasons for refusal, submitted to the Council.

Granted

If the application is approved, check which, if any, conditions need action either before development commences or before occupation of the building.

A standard condition relating to materials is:

"Before development begins, samples of the materials to be used in the development hereby approved shall be submitted to, and approved by, the local planning authority".

This condition needs to be ‘discharged’ prior to the commencement of development. Otherwise, the permission is technically invalid and developers are liable to having a Breach of Condition Notice served upon them. The condition needs formally discharging even if the planner has seen details of the materials to be used.

Main reasons for refusal

• The proposal is contrary to policy.
• Details of the proposed scheme have been poorly thought through or are inappropriate.
• The scale of the development is unacceptable.
• Advice of officers was either not sought or was ignored.
• Appropriate technical professional advice was not used to support the application.
• The application was submitted and simply left to run its course, without any intervention.