How to Object to a Planning Application

Key considerations when a local planning application could negatively impact your community. Objections must focus on material planning considerations.

Aug 26, 2024

When a local planning application could negatively impact your community, it’s essential to know, how to object effectively. Objections must focus on material planning considerations that the planning authority can legally consider.

3 2 storey houses with dark window frames and 3 different brick walls. There is mature shrubbery in the front garden and a brick wall surrounding the gardens. — Housing Development @Yolanda Barker

Valid Reasons to Object

Loss of Light/Overshadowing: Developments that block sunlight can be a valid consideration.
Loss of Privacy/Overlooking: Direct views into your property may infringe your privacy.

Traffic and Parking: Inadequate parking or increased traffic can lead to congestion and safety concerns. Is there disability access?

cars queueing on a busy road. there are 7 cars and one white lorry and a sign for Cranford/Heston. — Reducing new traffic congestion is a material consideration @Autoexpress

Noise and Disturbance: Excessive noise from the proposed use can impact your quality of life.
Effect on Listed Buildings/Conservation Areas: Harm to historic sites or conservation areas is a key consideration.
Protecting biodiversity and trees is a material consideration under UK Planning Policy @Yolanda Barker
Design and Appearance: The design should complement the surrounding area.
Loss of Trees: Removing trees can harm local biodiversity and visual appeal.
Highway Safety: Developments that pose risks to road users should be challenged.
Environmental Impact: Objections can be raised if nature conservation or archaeology is affected.
Non-Compliance with Planning Policies: Proposals must align with local and national planning policies.

A dictionary page with consideration in bold. there is a big red cross through this showing No consideration. — No Consideration under planning policies @Yolanda Barker

What Not to Consider

Unfortunately, certain issues do not fall under planning policy meaning they won’t be considered.

Perceived loss of property value
Personal disputes
Loss of a view
Who owns the property

image cartoon of red house with an arrow representing house price falling — No consideration for a fall in house prices under planning @Yolanda Barker

Planning Policies

For a strong objection, reference the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and your local council’s Local Plan. Your area may also have a neighbourhood plan.

Sections on sustainable transport, design and environmental conservation are particularly relevant. How many parking spaces should they be providing? This is often an area the developer tries to overlook.

A beech desk top with 3 succulent plants, A grey filing box, some papers, a calculator and a grey file with Policies sticker on the front. — Policies such as the NPPF and Local Plan for consideration @YolandaBarker

What can I do now?

If you are concerned seek support from your parish, local or county councillors.

Objecting to a planning application is more effective when you focus on material considerations and align your arguments with established policies. By doing so, you can help ensure your community’s interests are protected.