The Parish Council is aware that many in our community are interested in the local planning applications that we receive and respond to. Did you know that you have a role to play, too? It’s a bit of a complicated process, but here are some of the key details:
What is planning permission?
It’s the official approval required from your Local Planning Authority (LPA) before you can build something new, change the use of a building, or make certain alterations. It is meant to ensure development is managed in the public interest. Our LPA is West Oxfordshire District Council (WODC).
Who makes planning decisions?
Ultimately, the decision is made by the LPA. However, they weigh up what the applicant wants against national planning policy and local and neighbourhood plans. The LPA also must consult with specific stakeholders, such as local town and parish councils.
What’s the process for the Parish Council?
When a planning application is submitted, WODC shares the details with us and provides a deadline for a formal response. We discuss all applications at our monthly Planning Committee meeting, where public attendance – and contribution to the discussion – is always welcome.
We decide on our formal response at the meeting; we either remain neutral, support, or object. We can add comments, but we can’t ‘block’ an application.
What happens is a planning application is refused?
If an application is refused, the applicant can appeal to the Planning Inspectorate, an independent government body. At this stage, stakeholders like the Parish Council can once again submit evidence.
Community voice
When the Parish Council makes a decision on a planning application, we always try to best represent the views of the parish. We listen to residents’ comments and carefully consider the impact – positive and negative – of the application on the community.
The more residents talk to us or attend our Planning Committee meetings, the better we will understand how people feel and the more appropriate decisions we can make. Why not come along? They are usually help monthly on a Tuesday evening at 6.45pm in the Village Hall. The agenda will be available online a few days in advance, with the minutes shared online a few days after. Check the
Meetings page to see when the next one is.
In whatever way works for you, get involved and play your part in planning!