What if my planning application has received objections?

If you have received objections to your development don’t worry, this is perfectly normal and expected with every planning application. All objections will be considered by the planning authority however, not all objections carry the same weight and many may be totally irrelevant and disregarded in any case.

However, it is very important that you address the concerns and respond accordingly as soon as possible. Some objections may have no bearing on your application at all while others could have a significant impact, whether a compromised design or even a planning rejection.

It is important that your response is emotional but instead a strong counter argument which where possible is supported by facts and evidence. To give your application the best chance of success wherever possible your response should be supported by technical planning law facts.

Here are some of the most common reasons for planning objections;

• Loss of light or overshadowing
• Overlooking/loss of privacy
• Visual amenity (but not loss of private view)
• Adequacy of parking/loading/turning
• Highway safety
• Traffic generation
• Noise and disturbance resulting from use
• Hazardous materials
• Smells
• Loss of trees
• Effect on listed building and conservation area
• Layout and density of building
• Design, appearance and materials
• Landscaping
• Road access
• Local, strategic, regional and national planning policies
• Government circulars, orders and statutory instruments
• Disabled persons’ access
• Compensation and awards of costs against the Council at public enquiries
• Proposals in the Development Plan
• Previous planning decisions (including appeal decisions)
• Nature conservation
• Archaeology
• Solar panels

All of these are technical reasons for objecting to a planning application and could potentially result in an application being rejected.

If you are unfamiliar with all of the complex planning laws you can instruct an expert such as Studio Charrette to prepare and respond to your planning objection on your behalf, to give yourself the best chance of success.

Get in touch!