Third PartyRepresentations
Michael Parkes Planning Services can submit comprehensive representations that identify the relevant planning considerations in the context of your concerns. These are made to the Local Authority for their consideration during the determination of a planning application or, to The Planning Inspectorate at Appeal. We are also able to attend Committee Meetings and present to local Members on your behalf.
Our services include:
- Advice to Parish Councils, Community Groups and Third Parties
- Preparation of Objection Letters
- Editing Objection Letters
- Appeal Statements
What is a third party?
Normally, in terms of planning, the applicant is referred to as the ‘first party’ and the local authority as the ‘second party’. ‘Third parties’ are anyone who might have an interest in a planning application, whether as owner of the land, neighbours, Parish Council or community groups.
The consultation process (neighbour or community) form an integral part of the planning system. It allows for anyone who might have an interest in a proposal to make representations as a third party, either in support or against a proposal.
Whether you support of object against a proposal, it can influence the outcome of the planning application. Local Planning Authorities (LPA) will take account all representations received and will consider them fully which may result in an amendment to the proposal.
As an example, if you are concerned about a neighbours proposed extension and how it might impact on your privacy, loss of light, loss of outlook from a window or how it will impact the character of area, it would be beneficial to write to the LPA.
If you a part of a community group with concerns over new development proposals and how these might impact your village or town, we at Michael Parkes Planning Services can support and help you through this often upsetting and worrying time. We are pleased to represent individuals or multiple objectors.
It should be noted that only comments relating to relevant planning issues (material planning considerations) can be considered, things such as:
- Scale, size, bulk, layout and density
- Amenity issues like overshadowing, privacy
- Increase in noise and disturbance
- Increased traffic and highways safety issues
- Appearance of the proposed building – in terms of character of the area
- Possible conflict with planning policies
- Landscaping
Non-material planning considerations are issues not relevant to a planning decision. These can include issues such as loss of a view or loss of property value which is not considered valid reasons for objecting to a planning application.
Information to be included?
The name and address of the person making representations should be included as well as the application reference number and address. You should refrain from including personal or sensitive information or the use of offensive, discriminatory or defamatory language.
Anonymous comments will not be considered.
When to comment on a planning application?
As soon as possible!
Consultations are normally limited to a 21-day period and your comments should be received by the Council before the expiry date. The date is published on the Council’s website. The date is also normally shown on a site notice displayed in the street near the application site. You should only comment on un-determined planning applications.
Who will see my comment?
Comments are made visible to the public (published on the Council’s website) and the planning officer will include a summary within their report.
Case officers do not normally respond to each individual email or letter received. At the time of any appeal against a refusal, representations made will also be passed to the Planning Inspectorate.
