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):