Our planning department aims to improve the environment in which we live and work. We want to work closely with you as developer, to ensure that your proposals meet our standards and have the greatest chance of gaining approval. In order to achieve this we offer a service which brings together all those involved in the process of considering your potential formal application. This means that any problems can be identified and resolved quickly and effectively.

Areas of expertise

When you request a Development Team Approach we can provide guidance on the following topics:

• development management
• planning policy
• highways
• drainage/surface water design
• contaminated land and environmental health
• built and natural environment (conservation, ecology, trees)
• building regulations

What will be expected from you

In order for us to consider your proposal and provide you with a comprehensive response you will need to submit the following information with your initial enquiry:

• pre-application enquiry form
• written statement of the proposal
• location plan
• sketch plans of the proposal (if available)
• Development Team Approach fee

You can indicate whether you wish to use the Development Team Approach when completing the pre-application enquiry form.

What should you expect?

Professional officers from a range of council departments involved in the development process who can advise on all aspects of your proposal are brought together to form a Development Team. This will be led by a Development Team Officer (DTO) who will co-ordinate and guide you through the process.

A meeting between you and the Development Team will be arranged by the DTO, usually within seven working days of the initial enquiry.  Any further meetings or site visits may be arranged at the discretion of the DTO.

At all stages we will feed back on key points in writing, typically within seven working days of any development team meeting.

Our communications with you will include:

• a clear indication of the scope of information that is required and the need for supporting documents and studies
• comprehensive advice and guidance that is up-to-date and is consistent
• what consents are required
• what pre-application consultation will be required
• national and local planning policy implications
• an indication of the councils requirements, such as affordable housing / open space provision / education contributions
• a clear indication of the acceptability of your proposal
• a likely timetable, including Committee dates