Commenting on planning applications

Introduction

We have a duty to consult on applications and contact occupiers of neighbouring properties affected by proposals to find out what they think.  As part of the application process we want to get the views of all interested parties.

Download the leaflet Your chance to have your say which is for anyone who may be affected by a planning application.

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How do I find out about an application?

We publicise planning applications usually by writing to near neighbours of the site who are invited to comment on the proposal.

We also provide a Weekly List of Registered Applications which is available to view via this website or at these offices.

Some applications are advertised in the Bristol Evening Post and/or by a formal site notice displayed on or near the application site.  Applications advertised in this way are those that:

• affect a listed building
• affect a conservation area
• depart from the council's local plan
• affect a public right of way, or
• have a substantial impact on an area

A period of time (normally 21 days) is allowed from the date of publicity for comments to be made.  However, all written comments received up until the decision is made will be considered.

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Where can I look at an application?

You can inspect planning applications, including application forms, drawings and other relevant information:

• online via PublicAccess for Planning
   
• by visiting Planning Services' reception at Brunel House, St George's Road, Bristol - opening hours 8.30am to 5pm Monday, Wednesday and Thursday; 9.30am to 5pm on Tuesday and 8.30am to 4.30pm on Friday
  
  Link to Google Map

You can also telephone the case officer to discuss or ask about an application.

If you are a disabled person and would have difficulty in coming to these offices to look at the plans, you may contact the case officer who will send you a copy of the plans or visit you at home.

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How do I make a comment?

You can make a comment about a planning application in writing:

• online - via PublicAccess for Planning
   
• by letter - City Development, Brunel House, St George’s Road, Bristol BS1 5UY
  To avoid unnecessary publication of personal details, you can exclude personal information, eg you do not need to sign your letter, or include telephone numbers or email addresses.
   
• by email - Comments can be sent by email to either customerservices.ptsd@bristol.gov.uk or via the Weekly List of Registered Applications.
  To avoid publication of your email address, you can send your comment as an attachment to your email.

Comments must include

• the date
• name and address of the sender
• the application number
• site address

Please note

• anonymous comments, letters or emails will not be accepted or taken into consideration in the determination of applications
• if you send a comment by email or online, you do not need to send us a hard copy via the post. Electronic comments carry just as much weight as written comments, and are processed in the same way.
• any written comments you make about an application, by law, must be publicly available, which includes via our website

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What can I comment on?

All comments we receive about a planning application will be considered, but only planning issues can be taken into account.  These include:

• loss of light or privacy
• overshadowing on your home
• highway safety
• traffic and parking issues
• noise
• amenity
• wildlife
• historic buildings
• conservation
• design, and
• appearance of the development

Issues which cannot be taken into account include:

• loss of view
• effect on property values
• private rights
• boundary disputes, and
• construction noise

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What happens when I comment on an application?

We will acknowledge all written comments on an application. The acknowledgement letter will tell you who is dealing with the application and who to contact if you have any questions.

We will not normally contact you again until after a decision is made unless the application:

• is to be determined by a Development Control Committee, or
• is significantly altered or withdrawn

Please note that due to the large number of comments received about planning applications we cannot enter into individual correspondence or discussion.  You will, however, be advised of the decision.

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