The planning process

If you are thinking about making alterations to your property or changing its use you may need planning permission from the National Park Authority.

The Authority has a legal duty to control development within the National Park but it is keen to do everything it can to assist you with your application. Over 80% of all applications are approved and, before you start, someone from the planning service will be happy to explain what you will need to do to give your application every chance of succeeding.  This now includes being able to speak at the planning committee before members make their decisions.

Here's a guide to how the process works:

• Check if you need permission
  Many things can be done without formal consent. Consult our guidance notes, call 01629 816200 or email customer.service@peakdistrict.gov.uk
  
  
• Make the application 
  If your proposal does need permission you will be sent the necessary forms and given advice on how to fill them in. Unless your application is straightforward it is normally a good idea to employ a professional agent to help you with the plans and paperwork.
  
  
• Processing the application (1)
  A correct application (with the appropriate fee) will normally be acknowledged within three working days and you should be told which planning officer will deal with the application within the following week. He or she can explain what stages your application will have to go through.
  
  
• Consulting with others
  Your planning officer will make sure the application is properly advertised and all the relevant people are consulted. This may include local authorities, highway authorities and other interested parties. People have a right to comment on applications and what they say will be acknowledged and taken into account before any decisions are made.
  
  
• Processing the application (2)
  Your planning officer will normally visit the site and assess your application against the Authority's planning policies. These policies have been drawn up after consultation with local people and organisations and are designed to look after the special qualities of the National Park. They are contained in the Structure Plan and Local Plan. They are also available for inspection at the Authority's Bakewell offices and at main libraries.
  
  
• Making changes. 
  If changes to your proposals are needed, the planning officer will contact you (or your agent). The aim is to reach agreement on a proposal that will be acceptable.
  
  
• Making a recommendation. 
  The planning officer will then write a report and make a recommendation. Major applications, or those which are considered 'controversial', are considered by the Authority's planning committee. Some decisions, which are straightforward and consistent with policies can be taken by officers under 'delegated powers'.
  
  
• Making a decision. 
  Members of the planning committee decide on major or controversial applications. They can approve or reject applications or approve with conditions. People can now speak in support of their applications before decisions are made. Speaking at public meetings
  
  
• Informing you. 
  Applicants are usually told the decision within three working days. People who have commented on, or been consulted about applications are usually told the result within ten working days.
  
  
• Appealing against a decision.
  If you are not happy with what has been decided we will explain why the decision was made. If you disagree with the decision you have a right to appeal to an independent inspector appointed by the secretary of state. The planning portal gives guidance on how to make an appeal.  If you have a complaint about the way your application was dealt with you can raise it through the Authority's complaint procedure.