Comment on a planning application

All comments must be received in writing, either by letter, email or using the online comment facility. We cannot accept or consider verbal comments. The law requires that all comments received in relation to planning applications must be made available for public inspection. This means that any comments you submit will be published and available to view online, and will include your name and address. We cannot treat comments as confidential. Similarly, we cannot consider anonymous comments on an application. 

For further information and your rights on how the council uses your personal information please read our privacy notice for planning applications.

Once an application has been formally accepted, there is a period of 21 days to make your comments. If you miss the deadline for comments, they may not be taken into account. Please note that we cannot reply individually to representations received.

What to comment on

You should view the plans and forms before you comment on an application, to ensure you understand the development under consideration. We can only take certain issues into account when considering an application for planning permission. These are known as material considerations.

Some application types, such as Prior Approval and Lawful Development Certificates can only be assessed against specific criteria as defined by Government. In these cases the standard material considerations do not apply and applications are considered only in relation to specific matters of fact and law relevant to that application type. 

If you want to make a comment supporting or objecting to an application, it must be about the planning merits of the application. Comments that are not relevant to the determination of an application will not be considered. Please note that derogatory or abusive comments about any person or group are not acceptable and will not be considered. We reserve the right to remove offensive, abusive or racist comments made on planning applications.

Please visit the Planning Portal for a list of material considerations for planning applications.

Please note however, that the following issues are not material considerations and cannot be considered:

• loss of view
• devaluation of property
• business competition
• damage to property
• consent required under other legislation (such as building regulations)
• boundary disputes, rights of access, covenants and other private rights
• disturbance during development
• maintenance of property

To comment on an application online please follow the instructions below for your area. Alternatively you can send a letter or email to the planning department for the relevant council.