Commenting on applications

How do I send you comments about an application?

You can email comments on applications to planning@lakedistrict.gov.uk or send them by post to Lake District National Park Authority, Murley Moss, Kendal, LA9 7RL. Comments that are offensive or defamatory will not be considered.

Please make sure you quote the application reference number on any representations.

When do I have to send you my comments by?

Applications for planning permission, reserved matters, variation of condition, listed building consent, and modification of planning obligations are publicised in accordance with legal requirements – this usually means a site notice and in some cases a press notice. These applications will not be determined before the latest of:

  • 14 days from registration; or
  • 21 days from the date of a press notice (if there is one); or
  • 21 days from the date of a site notice (if there is one)

Although we will take into account representations received before we determine an application, if your comments arrive after the publicity period has expired, the application may have already been decided when we get your comments.

There are no publicity requirements for most applications for lawful development certificates, non-material amendments, advertisement consent or prior approval, and these applications may be determined at any time.

Where can I view an application?

You can view application details online using our planning application search, or at our office in Kendal during office hours (please call ahead to make sure the file is available to avoid a wasted journey).  From 1 August 2018 letters of objection and support from the public will be displayed on our website.

Will the applicant be able to read my representations?

Yes, anyone can read your comments. Representations made on a planning application are a matter of public record.  Anyone can view them on the paper application file up to 1 August 2018, after which they will be displayed on our website.

How are decisions on planning applications made?

You can find out more about how applications for planning permission are decided in the Government’s National Planning Practice Guidance.

Can I make representations in person at Development Control Committee?

Most applications are decided under powers delegated to the Head of Development Management.  A small number of significant or more contentious applications are considered by Development Control Committee as set out in our Scheme of Delegation. Public speaking is permitted at Development Control Committee in accordance with our policy and process, and subject to dates and deadlines for registration and confirmation. If you would like to make representations in person at Planning Committee you must have: made written comments; and have registered that you wish to speak by the deadline; and have confirmed your attendance by the deadline.

More information about the protocol and process for public speaking, including registration and confirmation deadlines can be found in the Process for public speaking at Development Control Committee and Policy for public speaking at Committee meetings (pdf).

What happens if an application goes to appeal?

If we refuse an application, the applicant usually has a right of appeal to the Secretary of State. Appeals are handled on behalf of the Secretary of State by the Planning Inspectorate.  In the case of a householder or minor commercial application appeal that proceeds by way of the expedited procedure, any representations made about the application will be passed to the Secretary of State but there will be no opportunity to make further representations.

In the event of any other appeals we will send the Planning Inspectorate copies of any representations we received before taking our decision, and will notify people who commented when any further representations should be with the Planning Inspectorate.