How we consult on planning applications

It is a legal requirement to publicise all planning applications either by letter or by site notice. It is the practice at Richmond upon Thames Council to publicise more widely than is required.

Not only do we seek to consult adjoining neighbours affected by a proposal by letter but notices may also be published in the local paper and/or may be displayed on or close to the site (for at least 21 days) for many applications.

These include those which would affect the character or setting of a listed building, or the character of a conservation area, or which in the Council's opinion are likely to have implications for more than the immediate neighbours. We also consult neighbouring Boroughs where appropriate and also consult directly any properties in other Boroughs that are directly affected by the proposal.

We encourage and advise applicants to talk to their neighbours informally before submitting their application. This will not affect the consultations that we will carry out.

A weekly list of all applications received is posted on our website and available for inspection at the Civic Centre. In the case of development affecting a conservation area or listed buildings, or a major proposal, then we will also publish details of the application in a local newspaper.

As a neighbour, you will be given 21 days to comment. It is helpful to us to know your views whether you support the proposal, object to it or merely have a view to express about it.

The Council's practice is to negotiate improvements to applications and if possible overcome objections made by neighbours. If an application is amended and we believe the amendments raise new issues, then we will write to you again giving you 14 days to make any further comment.