Planning

All applications for planning permission must be submitted to the local planning authority - Medway Council. An application can take one of three forms:

Outline planning application

This contains no details but is submitted to obtain permission in principle. Conditions are usually attached to an outline planning permission in order to set out guidelines for the ultimate development of the site. Outline planning applications cannot be made for a change of use. The council does not normally grant outline planning permission in conservation areas or where the setting of listed buildings is affected.

Reserved matters

The council will always require  further details (reserved matters) to be submitted for approval following the grant of outline planning permission. The reserved matters application must be submitted within three years from the date of the outline permission, otherwise the permission will lapse. In some cases further details will be reserved by conditions imposed on the grant of full planning permission.

Full planning application

This includes all the details of the proposed development including site and building plans and types of building materials to be used. Development must normally start within three years of the date of the permission, otherwise the permission will lapse.

Alterations to a planning application

In the course of dealing with a planning application, the council may discuss and agree with the applicant alterations to the original proposal, which will make it more acceptable. If the amendments are substantial, a fresh application may be required.

Fees

Applicants, have to by law, pay a fee to the council when an application for planning permission is made. Go to details of fees, which are charged according to a nationally laid-down scale.

If you are proposing amendments to a listed building then please contact the relevant section below and seek advice on what consents you require. If you are proposing to place any kind of advertisement for your premises, including the fixing of a shop sign please contact the section to seek advice on what planning consent you require.

For further information go to the appropriate section listed below:

Advertisements;

Appeals;

Conservation Areas;

Contaminated Land;

Enforcement;

Listed buildings;

Telecommunications.

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