How Planning Committee Works
Related Information
Before the meeting, Members go to those sites,
which they consider they need to visit to clarify applications -
neither applicants nor objectors attend.
The Planning Committee normally starts at 6.30pm.
The agreed "standing orders" for Council committees control
who can speak, on what subject and for how long.
Members are sitting in judgment on applications.
If they have a financial or other interest that prevents them
considering the evidence with an open mind, they must declare and
"interest" and leave the meeting for that item. These
interests are declared at the start of the meeting. A member of the
committee cannot speak on behalf of an individual group, then take
part in the vote on that item.
Applicants and agents, together with objectors,
supporters and representatives of Parish Councils who have
commented in writing on applications may speak for three minutes at
Planning Committee, only one objector and one supporter would be
allowed to speak. If more than one person wishes to speak,
they must agree a spokesperson.
Usually decisions are taken with a "show of
hands" vote. However, if Members take a decision against the advice
of their Officers, the vote of each individual Member is recorded,
and they give the reasons for their decision.
The applicant has a legal Right of Appeal against
that Committee's decisions. Objectors or members of the public have
no Right of Appeal. However, they can use the Council's own Complaints Procedure, if they
consider that there has been "maladministration".
If you have any questions or comments on the
procedures or business of the Planning Committee, do not hesitate
to speak to the Council's Planning
Officers before or after the meeting.
If you have special needs we can arrange for key
documents to be provided in large print, braille, on tape or in
languages other than English. There is a "loop system" for the hard
of hearing.
Toilets are available just outside the hall.
Last Updated - 21/05/2013