The planning process

The following section will explain more about how the planning process works and how the Local Planning Authority will process your application.

We have recently worked with an external publisher to create a planning guide online (external link) which outlines the process. 

Please note: East Cambridgeshire is not responsible for any agreements between those companies advertising their services in the guide and the publisher, and therefore we cannot accept liability for any dispute between the parties concerned. The council makes no guarantee or provides any warranty in respect of the services or products which may be advertised in the guide.

Top ten tips

  1. Get pre-application advice to establish what the main issues are likely to be
  2. Speak to your neighbours and parish council before you submit your application
  3. Do your homework, make sure your proposal complies with other relevant legislation, for example building regulations
  4. Check if you need any surveys, for example protected species, structural work or contamination (these issues should be highlighted if you use the pre-application service)
  5. Ensure your plans do not infringe copyright, you can buy location or block plans through the Planning Portal: buy plans (external link)
  6. Check all plans are accurate and to a recognised scale
  7. Use the validation checklist which is available in our validation section to ensure you have provided the correct supporting information
  8. Provide as much detail as possible and be honest about why you are applying. If you are able to provide details such as windows, door and materials then this will reduce the number of potential conditions
  9. If you are required to enter into a S106 agreement, instruct your solicitor early on in the process
  10. Contact your agent or planning officer: if changes are needed, the sooner they can be identified the easier it will be to make changes within the agreed timescales