Guidelines for applicants, objectors and other interested parties wishing to address the Planning Committee

The scheme applies to all applications which are to be determined by the Planning Committee. These are for:

• mineral workings and waste management facilities such as quarries, landfill sites or waste incinerators
• our own development proposals such as educational facilities, new roads, council offices or depots

It does not apply to applications on which we are a consultee, or to other items of business on the agenda.

Where possible all comments should be made in writing. This will allow them to be summarised in the committee report and considered by members before the committee meeting.

In addition or alternatively you may attend the committee meeting and present your views in person.

• one representing applicant
• one representing the objectors
• relevant parish council representative
• a division member

A balance has to be struck between the length of time allowed for speakers and the efficient conduct of the committee’s business.

Except at the discretion of the committee persons addressing the committee will be allowed to speak for no more than three minutes.

Where a matter is raised which is clearly not capable of being taken into account as a material planning consideration the chairman shall have the discretion to intervene and, if necessary, request that person from speaking further.

Each person shall have only one opportunity to address the meeting in respect of any application being considered. That will normally be at the meeting which decides whether or not permission should be granted. Members of the committee may seek clarification on issues raised.

The chairman will have the discretion to allow further opportunities to speak but this will only be exercised in exceptional circumstances.

Before the meeting:

• if you wish to be heard in person (or through your representative), you should contact the committee services unit at the earliest opportunity. Requests to speak received less than three working days before the meeting may not be allowed

At the meeting:

• the speaker will be invited to address the committee following the presentation of the committee report by one of our officers on the relevant application
• parish councils/parish meetings will be heard first followed by an individual (or nominated spokesperson where more than one) and finally the applicant
• the speaker will be timed and at the end of three minutes, the chairman will intervene
• speakers may be questioned by members of the committee on points of clarification

If you wish to clarify any aspect of an application or you want to find out when the application is to be considered please contact:

Trading Standards and Planning Services on 0808 223 1133

But remember, if you wish to present your views in person you should, at the earliest opportunity, and certainly not later than three working days before the relevant committee meeting, please contact us.