How to make comments on planning applications - your opinions count

All planning applications are subject to publicity and most commonly neighbouring property owners will be notified of a proposal by letter. Sometimes we will advertise the application by using a pink site notice and/or a press notice in the Oldham Chronicle.

We carry out consultations with groups such as Saddleworth or Shaw & Crompton Parish Committees and other agencies, such as the Environment Agency, English Heritage, the Ramblers Association and the utility companies as appropriate to the proposal.

Applications can be viewed in full at the reception on level 12 of the Civic Centre, or you can search a list of planning applications registered here.

How to make representations

We welcome your comments and will give them careful consideration, but your comments must be put in writing or submitted online within 21 days of the date of the
notification letter, site notice or press advertisement. Anyone can make representations on planning grounds for or against the proposal but please read the information below what we can and cannot take into account.

The Council does not acknowledge any representations in writing because of the very large numbers we receive. However, where a decision is to be made by the Planning Committee, rather than by the Head of Planning Services, you will be informed of the meeting date if you have made comments on an application or if you were originally notified of the proposal. The Application Process page gives more information on the levels of decision making.

Confidentiality

Any letters submitted are open to be viewed and copied by the applicant or other members of the public and as such cannot be treated as confidential or kept private. This is to conform with the requirements of Section 100(1) of the Local Government Act 1972.

Taking account of your views

The Council takes into account all written representations it receives, but it can only make its decision on planning grounds.

By law, certain matters must be considered. This is not a definitive list but they include:

Local Planning Policies - the Oldham Unitary Development Plan (UDP) sets out the Council's planning policies.
Government Advice as set out in circulars, planning policy guidance notes/statements (PPGs/PPSs) and Regional planning guidance.
Comments from neighbours.
Comments from consultees.

Note - The Council can only take into account those comments that are directly relevant to the planning process such as:

Loss of amenity.
Privacy.
Outlook.
Traffic issues.
Noise.
Nuisance.

Matters that cannot be taken into account include:

Reduction in property values.
Loss of views.
Private rights of way.
Ownership matters.
Disturbance during construction.

These are issues that should be pursued separately, either as a private legal matter or through other legislation.

Speaking at Committee

The Planning Committee meetings are open to the public and anyone making representations on planning matters is entitled to speak at the meeting. However, in order to ensure the smooth running of the committees the number of speakers is limited to two, one supporter and one objector. Further information on the committee is available here. It is important to inform the committee administrator for the appropriate committee if you wish to speak.