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Q&As
Can There Be Development Without Planning Permission?
There has been a development on an adjacent strip of land to where I live. From what I understand, there is no planning approval, but a file has been opened. Is there any way of finding out what, if anything, is happening?
The individual has now become belligerent and won’t answer even a straightforward question. Is there any point in my visiting Buckinghamshire Council Offices? I have already spoken with Buckingham Town Council who have sent me (and my neighbour) a form to record a diary - both retroactively and ongoing - but I believe that is in relation to environmental matters, nuisance and noise and privacy.
One Answer
Development usually requires planning permission, though some projects can be done as permitted development (PD) and can be carried out without formal planning permission as long as the works meet strict criteria.
As a starting point, have a look at your local council’s website. Navigate to the planning pages, where you will be able to search through a database of planning applications. You can usually search by postcode, road name or even by finding the piece of land in question on a map. You may discover that planning permission has, in fact, been granted for the development. Take a look at the plans to work out what the development is and to check that what is being built complies with those plans.
If you are having difficulty finding planning records for the site, contact the planning department directly, by phone or email. Many councils have a duty planning officer who is available each day to respond to questions from the public (though recent resource constraints have caused many councils to withdraw this service).
If you are concerned that the development may not have planning permission and may be unlawful, contact the planning enforcement team at the council. They investigate possible planning breaches and may take action. Any complaints to the enforcement team are confidential.
If you are still struggling to get an answer, contact your local ward councillors. Their role is to represent your interests within the council.
Best wishes,
Martin Gaine (Build It Planning Expert)