Should I apply for outline planning permission or full planning permission?
Outline planning permission may be applied for where the developer wishes to establish the principle of the development before drawing up a detailed scheme, thus saving the cost of detailed plans if consent is not granted. When outline consent is granted, a further application must be made to the Comhairle, as planning authority, for it's approval of the detailed scheme. These details are known as reserved matters. There is a fee for both the outline planning permission and the application for reserved matters. If the applicant has already decided all or most of the details an application for full detailed planning permission is appropriate |
How long does it take to obtain planning permission?
For most planning applications the Comhairle has two months, from receipt of a valid application, to determine the application. If a decision is not made within this period the applicant has the option of lodging an appeal on the grounds that the authority is deemed to have refused the application. |
Does the application have to go before the Councillors?
No. A planning application will only be considered by the Environmental Services Committee if there are objections to the development, or it is recommended that the application be refused for example, if it is contrary to Development Plan policy or it is considered to be of significance. |
What Design Policies will be considered by the Comhairle in determining Planning Applications?
DEVELOPMENT PLAN DESIGN POLICIES
While development will be generally encouraged the promotion of good design is important, especially noting the government's priority on improving environmental quality. In determining new development applications a range of design factors will considered as outlined in the following Development Plan policy extracts:
Structure Plan policy DM7 (extract from approved Western Isles Structure Plan 2003) In dealing with applications for development the Comhairle will take account of other relevant Structure Plan policies and will ensure:
(i) quality siting, landscaping and designs that incorporate sustainable management techniques.... (See also DM1 on choice of site)
Structure Plan Policy SC10 encourages the efficient use of resources:- “in conjunction with its Community Planning partners, the Comhairle will seek to encourage land use and development solutions that assist in utilizing resources efficiently, reducing pollution, minimising waste and promoting the use of recycled material where possible.”
What about adding in SC10 - efficient use of resources
Local Plan policy DC7 (extract from Finalised Harris Local Plan 2000) In dealing with applications for development the Comhairle will seek to achieve, particularly at the negotiation stage, an appropriate and acceptable quality of design in relation to:
(i) appropriate location in landscape or townscape,
(ii) careful placement on a site, particularly in relation to character, amenity and energy conservation,
(iii) appropriate size and form in relation to existing buildings, sky line and landform
(iv) appropriate density, layout and orientation in relation to character, amenity, privacy of neighbouring properties and energy conservation, and
(v) sensitive use of materials and colours in relation to existing setting and environmental impact... |
