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Town Planning is about how we plan for, and make decisions about, the future of our cities, towns and countryside. Over the centuries, a formal way of making these decisions was set up. Your planning authority is responsible for deciding whether a development - anything from an extension on a house to a new shopping centre.

The Town Planning Development Control Group is responsible for the processing of all Planning Applications. You can access information about current and past applications by searching the Planning Application where it is also possible to submit your comments online on current applications. All plans must take account of the sustainable needs of future communities. They must take account of the environment as well as setting out the sorts of development needed to help people live and work in the area.

If you live in a house, you can make certain types of minor changes to your home without needing any for Development Potential or planning permission. These rights are called '' planning services". It is your responsibility check whether Planning Services is required. Please contact the Development Control Group on 01628 780780. If required, planning permission should be granted before any work begins. For further information see the Permitted Development Webpages.

Many kinds of buildings and structures can be built in your garden or on the land around your house without the need to apply for planning permission. These can include sheds, garages, greenhouses, accommodation for pets and domestic animals, summer houses, swimming pools, ponds, sauna cabins, enclosures (including tennis courts) and many other kinds of structure. Larger structures and enclosures may require permission

More information about planning in your area

The New Housing planning system can look complicated and can put people off commenting on proposals for a new house or getting involved in the planning process.

They are there to help. You can also contact the following:
• Planning Aid - a charity set up by planners to offer free and unbiased advice.
• Professional advice, such as from a qualified planning agent or consultant.
• Your local elected councilor or Member of Parliament.
• The Commissioner for Local Administration if you feel that the local

The planning service encompasses predominantly statutory and non-statutory Town Planning and Building Control services which support the Council's wider urban regeneration and economic development initiatives, and, at the same time, protect and enhance the Borough's built and natural environment.