We operate a delegation system which means only around 10% of applications need to be reported to a Committee, but we still ensure that democratic and locally accountable decisions are taken. The delegation system operates in the following way:

On every application the Ward Member(s) for the area are consulted and the Borough Planning and Development Officer is authorised to determine all applications except:

where a Ward Member requests that an application goes to a committee

• Great Yarmouth Borough Council applications

• significant Norfolk County Council applications

• consultations on applications submitted to adjoining local authorities (except where a response is required prior to the next meeting of the Development Control Committee)

• applications which involve any Member or Officer of the Borough Council as applicant or agent, or where a Ward Member declares an interest

• having developments in excess of 25 units

• major significant industrial or retail developments

The Development Control Committee:

• has delegated powers from the Council

• meets 12 times per year

• determines applications except where delegated to the Borough Planning and Development Officer

• confirms Tree Preservation Orders (where objections are received)

• receives details of appeal decisions

• receives details of applications decided under delegated powers and Enforcement Notices

The Borough Planning and Development Officer is authorised to instigate enforcement action.


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Types of decision

In determining applications the Borough Council can:

• grant permission

• grant permission subject to conditions.
  These have to be:

  • necessary to control the development

  • relevant to planning

  • relevant to the development permitted

  • enforceable

  • precise

  • reasonable in all other respects
    
    the reason for granting permission also has to be stated
    

• refuse permission e.g. where the proposal results in overdevelopment of a site

  • an unreasonable loss of light or privacy

  • a danger to highway users

  • harm to the character of an area

  • development contrary to the Development Plan
    poor design

• reasons for refusal need to:

  • relate to planning issues

  • be sound and clear cut

  • be reasonable

Decisions can also require planning agreements/obligations (under Section 106 of the Act) to be entered into. These have to be relevant to the planning merits of the proposal.

In some cases applications have to be referred to the Government Office before a decision can be made (e.g. where the proposed decision would involve a significant departure from the Development Plan):