Advice and Guidance

This section guides the prospective developer or householder as to what requires planning permission, how to go about applying and the procedures adopted within the Council for processing applications.

The need for planning control

The town and country planning system is designed to regulate the development and use of land in the public interest. It is important for protecting and enhancing the environment in town and country, preserving the built and natural heritage, conserving the rural landscape and maintaining the Green Belt.

The planning system has a positive role to play in guiding appropriate development to the right place, as well as preventing development which is not acceptable. It should operate on the basis that applications for development should be approved, having regard primarily to the District Plan and other material considerations, unless the proposed development would cause demonstrable harm to interests of acknowledged importance.

Please see menu on left hand side of page for more information and guidance.