Planning enforcement

Between 750 and 1,000 enforcement enquiries are received by the council every year. Many of these are dealt with quickly as investigation reveals there is no breach of planning control. Or we find a minor technical breach. We can deal with these informally.

Cases occurring throughout the region vary widely. These include:

• residential extensions
• breaches of planning conditions
• commercial developments
• unauthorised changes of use
• re-use of farm buildings
• haulage activities
• advertisements
• land uses adversely affecting amenity
• works to listed buildings
• works to protected trees and hedges

Resources

The council’s enforcement team have three officers. They are based in the development control team of the council's planning service. They investigate cases from initial enquiry or complaint through to service of formal notices, appeals and court action.

Legal support

The council's Legal and Democratic services unit provides legal support.  Close liaison with the unit ensures appropriate legal advice is always available. 

More information: