Planning processes and validation

Once we receive your application, we will:

Validate your application

We will check that you have submitted all of the required documents and drawings, and you have paid the correct fee. If there are any problems, we will contact you.

Notify neighbours

We will notify your immediate neighbours. During the 3 week notification period, they can submit objections and comments.

We suggest that you speak to your neighbours about your proposal before you submit your application.

Consultations

We will send consultations to the local parish or town council, and in some cases to other organisations such as Essex County Council’s Highways Authority.

Site visit

We need to carry out a site visit for every planning application we receive. If we can see the location of your proposal from the road, we will not need to contact you to arrange a visit. If your proposal is to the rear and is not accessible, you will need to contact us to arrange a convenient time for us to visit.

We will sometimes display a yellow notice either outside or near the site. Once the date for comments has passed, you can remove the notice. The date is clearly displayed on the notice.

Assess the application

We don’t issue updates during the assessment period, but you can check the status of your application online.

Write a report

Your case officer will write a formal report, and recommend your application for approval or refusal.

Make a decision

The Director of Planning Services deals with most applications, under delegated powers from the council. We will notify you if your application is going to the planning committee to be dealt with, our committees are divided into 3 areas:

1. Plans East
2. Plans South
3. Plans West

For more advice advice about our planning committees

Issue a decision

We will issue a decision within:

• 8 weeks
• 13 weeks for applications for major developments
• 16 weeks if your application is subject to an Environmental Impact Assessment

Unless we request an extension of time.