Pre-application planning advice

If you are making a planning application we encourage you to get pre-application advice from us. This allows you to get an informal view on the likelihood of obtaining permission for your proposal, as well as guidance on the information to be submitted with the application.

We offer advice on all types of proposals, from householder extensions through to large scale developments, and provide specific advice tailored to meet your needs. As part of the process we will consult with all appropriate internal and external agencies on your behalf so you are advised to submit as much relevant information as possible.

We aim to respond to pre-application advice requests within 28 working days, however this may vary depending on the type and scale of the proposal.

Since 2013 we have charged a fee for obtaining pre-application advice.

Apply for householder pre-application advice

If you need pre-application advice you can email us your covering letter and supporting documentation:

• link: Apply for planning permission

As a minimum your email or letter should include: 

• enquirer's name and contact details
• site address
• details of the proposed development. 

You will also need to pay for the pre-application advice. Payments can be made by debit or credit card through our online system. 

Pay for pre-application advice

Extent of the advice provided

The precise nature and content of advice will vary from case to case. The level of advice will depend on the amount of information provided by the enquirer. The advice which may typically be included in a written response would comprise of:

• identification of any key policies or constraints which may affect the proposal
• site history
• responses from any consultations (not neighbours)
• a broad assessment of whether the principle of the proposed scheme is acceptable or not, including reference to factors which require further investigation or consideration
• likely section 106 contributions, where required
• if applicable, the enquirer will be signposted to the relevant planning application validation requirements
• advice on ‘adding value’ to proposal.

Limitations of the advice provided

Please be advised that we are unable to draw plans or design the proposal for the enquirer.

All advice is given in good faith and is not binding on the council. The formal decision of the council can only be given following the submission of a formal planning application. There is no guarantee that planning permission will be granted for a future application.

The fee paid is not refundable, however the fee (excluding VAT) for householder development will be off-set against the cost of any future formal application that is subsequently submitted.