Development Control Charter
The Development Control Process
2.1 Development Control is that part of the Town and Country Planning system which regulates the development and use of land. It enables the Authority to assess proposed developments in relation to national and local planning policies, taking account of other relevant factors including the impact of proposals on the National Park.
2.2 The process and timescales for dealing with planning applications are set out in national planning legislation and guidance. These require all local planning authorities to determine planning applications in accordance with the relevant planning polices (unless there are exceptional overriding circumstances). Development Control involves:
- offering informal advice to people on whether planning permission is required for a development or whether planning permission is likely to be granted;
- the processing of formally submitted applications;
- the monitoring of new development to ensure that the approved plans are complied with;
- the investigation of apparent breaches of planning control and taking enforcement action where necessary;
- the handling of appeals to the Secretary of State where the Authority has refused an application for planning permission.
2.3 The Authority through the Development Control system, seeks to achieve good quality development in the most acceptable location. In doing so, the Authority must balance the personal needs of the applicant against the potential impact of a proposed development on the special qualities and landscape character of the National Park.
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