Speaking at Public Meetings

The Council is committed to extending public involvement in the planning process. Members of the public now have an opportunity to put their views on a planning proposal direct to the Planning Committee when planning applications are being considered. We want this new procedure to be easy to use and fair to all that are participating.

The purpose of the scheme is to give you an opportunity to make your views known in person to the Committee. Letters and e-mails of support or objection will also continue to be taken into account.

Care has been taken to anticipate the needs of the speakers; however the Head of Planning Services would welcome feedback so that any improvements to the scheme can be considered.

Who can speak?

Anyone who has made written comments can speak either in favour or against an application. We will write and tell you in advance when the application you have commented on will be debated at Committee and that there will be an opportunity to speak. If you wish to address the Planning Committee it is important to let us know, by completing the appropriate form, and returning it to us by the deadline given in the letter. You will be given the opportunity to speak only once unless the application is deferred prior to the Planning Committee meeting.

Please see the leaflet 'Speaking at Planning Committee Meetings' for further information