How to get copies of planning records

The planning history is a statutory register available for members of the public to see during office hours. However, because of the gradual introduction of new technology the records are held in a mixture of media, some of which are easier to view than others.  

There may be a delay in finding records for you due to the mixture of media or especially if the receptionist is busy, and there may be a queue to use the microfiche viewer and the planning history PC. Please be patient. We are continually looking at ways to improve access to information but are limited by the available resources. It may not always be possible to find information while you wait and it always helps if you are able to give us prior notice.

The planning records since 1992 are on our reception computer system and summary details may be viewed at the reception desk (Planning Department). For applications within the last five years you can additionally see on the website what consultations were carried out, the details of the decision and whether it was decided by the Planning Committee or under delegated powers, if it was subject to an appeal and if so, what that decision was. You can view applications online here.

Earlier history is still on the old planning history cards, which give only basic details.

Earlier records are held on microfiche. The microfiche records can be viewed in the reception area where the reception staff will give guidance on using the microfiche machine.

From 1996 - 2002 records are scanned onto disks which can be seen on a PC in planning reception. From October 2003 application documents may be viewed online. You can view applications online here.

Statutory responsibility

Planning applications

While the council is only required by law to keep copies of the drawings, the decision notices and the application forms, many of the old files contain all the information that was ever attached to the file (including internal memos etc).

Please note that the council is not legally required to provide copies of any of the supplementary documents.

However, should you require copies (for example: of decision notices) please ask the receptionist which are available and the cost involved. Please note that we cannot normally provide copies while you wait. A request form should be completed at the reception and the appropriate fee paid or the request made by letter with the appropriate fee. Copies will be sent by post.

The information is available for inspection free of charge to personal callers during office hours, Monday to Friday 9am to 4.30pm at the Civic Centre, Ground Floor Reception, 44 York Street, Twickenham. Requests for copies of material (which are available to copy) may be paid for at reception but are not available on demand and will normally be despatched within a couple of days.

Please note that while copies of plans on current applications may be provided in certain circumstances which the receptionist will explain, drawings with historic files are subject to copyright legislation and the architect’s authorisation to copy them is normally required.

Building Applications

The applications submitted under the Building Regulations do not constitute a public register. If you have a query about whether Building Control applications have been made within the last 10 years the receptionist will be able to tell you. However, any information about those applications must be requested in writing. As with the planning applications, copies of the decision notices or completion certificates/letters may be obtained by writing to us enclosing the appropriate fee.