Notes about the Planning Process

Before submitting a planning application, we recommend using our pre-application enquiry service (One Stop Shop). This service helps you:

• understand what information is required
• identify and address potential issues early

Find out more information on our Planning Advisory Service

What Happens After You Apply

All applications are assigned to a case officer. They will:

1. Check your application to ensure all required information is included
2. Validate the application if complete
3. Consult relevant departments and external bodies (minimum 21 days)
4. Notify neighbours by letter, site notice or press advert (minimum 21 days)

You can view and comment on applications online via our Public Access Portal, or send written comments to:

Development Control Manager
Level 1, Civic Centre
Hartlepool, TS24 8AY
Email: developmentcontrol@hartlepool.gov.uk

Site Visit and Assessment

The case officer will visit the site and assess the proposal in its surroundings. They will then:

• make a detailed assessment
• If they have concerns and feel these can be overcome by a change to the application, or by imposing a condition(s), they may discuss this with the applicant. 
• recommend approval or refusal of the application

Conditions may include restrictions such as operating hours to reduce impact on neighbours.

Decision Making

Applications are either:

• Decided by the Planning & Development Manager (in consultation with the Committee Chair). This is for straightforward applications, where Council policy or guidelines are clear or where there are no more than two letters of objections from the occupiers of different properties.
• Referred to the Planning Committee (for major or contentious applications)

The Committee meets approximately every four weeks.

Speaking at Committee

If your application is considered by the Committee, you may be invited to speak. This applies to:

• applicants or supporters
• objectors

If more than one person wishes to speak, a single representative will be chosen. Please indicate your interest in speaking when submitting your comments. The case officer will contact you with further details.

Decision and Appeals

Once a decision is made, you will receive a formal notice. If your application is refused, you have the right to appeal to the Planning Inspectorate.

Only the applicant can appeal. Details of how to appeal will be included in the decision notice. You can also visit the Planning Inspectorate website for more information.