Learn about the different planning application types when considering a property conversion, small residential schemes or changes to commercial properties, and choose the right one for your development.
There is no single “planning permission”. Different routes exist to balance certainty, flexibility and risk. Early stage proposals benefit from outline permission; ready to build schemes usually require full permission.
Choosing the correct application type affects:
Most larger applications are for Full Planning Permission. You must submit full details of the proposal in your application, including layout, design and materials.
Typical decision time: Around 8 weeks for a minor application and 13 weeks for a major application.
Download our Validation Checklist to see exactly what’s needed for this application >>
Outline planning permission looks to establish if the scale and nature of a proposed development would be acceptable.
Once outline permission has been granted you may then need to apply to have the details of the scheme approved. These are called "reserved matters" and are:
Reserved Matters: If permission is granted, design details are approved later through Reserved Matters applications.
Download our Validation Checklist to see exactly what’s needed for this application >>
If you are unsure about which type of application to make speak to us as soon as possible for more information on the different types of planning application, and special considerations. The council offers a pre-application planning advice service for developers to help you get it right the first time.
Once you’ve chosen the right application, you may need drawings, a site location plan, and a few key documents.
You can prepare these yourself or ask your architect or planning consultant for help.
