Planning Applications - The Planning Application Process.

Planning Process

This guide takes you through how Solihull Council deals with a planning application.

What happens when I submit an application?

We will check your application to ensure you have included all the necessary documents and plans and have paid the correct fee.

We will then write to you to acknowledge receipt and to give you a date by which a decision should be made. The Council is expected to make a decision within 8 weeks on most applications.

Does the council publicise or consult on my application?

A number of consultations will normally take place according to the type of application before an application is decided. We notify all local residents affected by the proposal. Many applications are also advertised in the local press and on site. We also consult various public agencies, such as the Environment Agency and the relevant utility companies on certain applications.

Most applications in Conservation Areas are referred to the Council's Conservation Advisory Group and to the Historic Buildings Advisor.

Will a site visit be necessary?

Yes - a site visit will be carried out when all the relevant information has been received.

Who assesses my application and what are the considerations?

Planning officers assess the merits of all applications taking into account the Development Plan and all other material planning considerations, including the relevant replies on consultations and notifications.

The decision to approve or reject an application is made by the Head of Planning under 'delegated powers' unless certain conditions are met, in which case the application is referred to the Planning Committee. When applications are referred to the committee a report is prepared by the case officer which includes a recommendation as to whether the application should be approved or refused.

When would my application be referred to the Planning Committee for a decision?

Applications are referred to the Planning Committee if any of the following criteria apply:

• there is a substantial objection from local residents or from a statutory consultee;
• the proposal is in conflict with the Unitary Development Plan (UDP);
• the officer's recommendation is to refuse the development where substantial support for the development is received.
• the Conservation Area Advisory Group object to a proposal in or adjacent to a conservation area or in respect of a listed building
• the Committee Chairman, shadow Chairman or a local Ward Councillor requests (on sound planning grounds) that the application be referred to committee.

In practice all applications for major development or proposals of a contentious nature are determined by the Committee. In certain circumstances, for example where a relatively minor amendment is required to make the proposal acceptable, the Planning Committee will delegate authority to the Head of Planning to issue the decision once amended plans have been received.

If you are interested in Planning Committee decisions the Council will be making please visit right to appeal to the Secretary of State in England unless you have agreed in writing to an extension of that period. If you appeal, your application will be out of our hands and it may take longer to decide than if you had persevered with us.

What if I am unhappy with the decision - can I appeal?

Yes - see Right to Appeal

The right of appeal lies solely with the applicant, third parties do not have the right of a appeal.