Your Guide Through Belfast Planning Process

Belfast Planning Applications

Last Update: Tuesday, 20th November 2018 16:17

Belfast City Council has published two new documents designed to guide people through the planning process as simply and quickly as possible.



The first is a four-page ‘Guide To The Planning Application Process’. It outlines, in simple language:



the role of the Council in making planning decisions;

the relevant legislation;

what the Council can consider when making planning decisions;

the different types of planning consent;

how to submit a planning application;

the Council’s pre-application discussion (PAD) service;

how the Planning Department processes applications, including its commitment to good customer service;

the role of the Planning Committee;

how to comment on, or object to, an application;

what happens after a planning decision is made;

enforcing planning regulations; and

the right of appeal if an application is refused.



It also includes the Planning Department’s service standards and a simple process map.



The second publication is a two-page ‘Application Checklist’, with accompanying appendices, which outlines:



the basic information the Planning Department requires by law in order to process an application; and



the additional information which is needed to fully assess an application and thus giving applicants a better chance of getting planning permission.



Welcoming the publication of the two documents, Councillor Matt Garrett, Chair of the Planning Committee, commented:



“Ever since planning powers transferred to local councils in 2015, we have been constantly seeking to improve the service we offer to both our ratepayers and those wishing to invest in our city.



“Applying for planning permission can seem very complicated and a daunting prospect for many. These new publications seek to walk people through the process, by using plain language and explaining both what we need from applicants and what they can expect from us.”



Both publications can be downloaded from the Council website at www.belfastcity.gov.uk/applyforplanning or are available from the Planning Department’s public office in Linenhall Street or by calling 028 9050 0510.



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