Each local council has its own established protocols for how their planning committee operates. This could be on a geographical basis or with a single planning committee covering their whole area.
Smaller or less controversial planning applications are often determined under delegated powers and can be signed off at an officer level.
Planning committee is generally used to determine larger and/or more sensitive planning applications.
There are several ways that an application could go to committee.
This normally includes if the local councillor/ward member requests that the application is heard at committee. Larger or more complex applications and the number of objections received, can also trigger the need for the proposal to be considered at committee.
Planning committees often meet monthly and agendas and timetables should be available on the council’s website.
Whilst the number of people that can speak at planning committee is often limited, there is normally the opportunity for the applicant and an objector(s) to be present.
This is often for a limited slot (typically 3-5 minutes) and there is generally no opportunity for questions. The planning committee will then discuss the application before making a recommendation and determining the proposal.
Our planning team is experienced in working positively with case officers throughout the course of any planning application, and we understand local council planning committee procedures. Not only this, we are also experienced in presenting controversial or complex proposals to local councillors, which have gone on to receive full planning permission.
