What is Development Control?

Development Control is the part of the planning service which regulates the development and use of land (new buildings, external alterations to existing buildings, changes of use of buildings or land and other engineering operations). Its purpose is to ensure that changes to buildings and land and their uses are right for the site concerned.

Most minor applications are decided by senior planning officers. Major or controversial proposals are considered by a meeting of the Development Control Committee (generally held on the third Wednesday of every month). You can check dates and venues here . You are entitled to speak at these meetings. More information on public speaking at Development Control Committee meetings .

A full list of planning decisions taken by the planning committee or by officers under delegated powers can be seen by viewing  Planning Committee Agendas or Recent Planning Information

Planning proposals often raise complicated issues which need very careful consideration. This means taking into account the impact of a proposal upon the environment and on the interests of the community, including people living nearby. This sometimes results in a Section 106 Legal Agreement having to be entered into for the development to be considered acceptable.

The Development Control Enforcement Officer also deals with the issue of land used by travellers and unauthorised encampments .

The Local Plan   sets out policies which are used to make decisions when planning permission is applied for. The Waveney Local Development Framework , looking to 2021, will gradually replace the Local Plan. In addition to these documents, there are a number of key studies that need to be taken into account 
 

The Planning Officer
Town Hall
High Street
Lowestoft NR32 1HS

Telephone: 01502 523072 

or email us at pbc@waveney.gov.uk