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Public inquiries and planning appeals

If a planning application is refused permission, or conditions are attached to the permission that restrict the development in some way, the applicant may decide to appeal.

There is also a right of appeal for parties who have been served with an Enforcement Notice though not other forms of planning enforcement.

Please be aware that

Only the individual or company who submitted the planning application has the right to launch an appeal against a planning decision.

But you can still take an active part in the appeals process.

Also, you can request that Secretary of State calls in a significant planning application in your area, and holds a public inquiry. You can do this when you have a clear indication (such as a committee vote) that the local planning authority is set to grant planning permission, but you must make your request before a decision notice is issued.

In doing so, you can help prevent bad development and boost the prospects of good development.

The move to take an application or appeal to a public inquiry is a highly significant one, and is not a decision that will have been taken lightly by the secretary of state.

An example of this could be

  • The planning application is controversial in some way or else indicates considerable local opposition
  • Or perhaps the proposed development threatens an area of Green Belt
  • The removal of a treasured woodland that has been enjoyed for generations.

If a public inquiry is called for a planning application that concerns you, you have a good opportunity to present your case on behalf of your community.

However, your involvement in a public inquiry or other form of planning appeal will demand considerable commitment from you and your supporters.

This means

  • Organising your evidence
      • Preparing your case involves large amounts
      • Of time
      • Effort
      • Resources
      • Teamwork.

If you are successful, the hard work will have all been worth it.

Your reward will be the immense satisfaction of knowing you have safeguarded your local environment for all, now and in the future.