The following information provides answers to frequently asked questions relating to planning applications :-

How do I find out if I need planning permission for my proposal?

You may not always need planning permission for alterations or extensions to a house. There are many different factors which need to be assessed before it can be established whether planning permission is required or not required.

However, you will need planning permission for nearly all forms of new development, building work or engineering work.

If you want to know if planning permission is required to extend or alter your property please could you complete one of the following forms:

Form A - for proposed extensions to houses and new outbuildings

Form B – for loft conversions and roof alterations to houses

Form C – for driveways and hardstandings

The completed form should be returned to the Development Control section at Runnymede Borough Council or sent via email to development.control@runnymede.gov.uk. Your proposal will then be assessed and you will be advised as to whether your proposal does or does not require planning permission.

How can I get planning application forms?

All the Council's planning application forms are available to download.

Before submitting your application you should also read the 'Notes for Applicants' in the 'Planning Application Forms and Guidance Notes' section of the Website.

You will need to complete the forms and submit scaled and accurate drawings of your proposal before your application can be registered as a valid application.

Where can I see planning applications?

Planning applications can be viewed at the Technical Services Reception Area at the Runnymede Civic Centre between 8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m., on Mondays to Thursdays, and from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m., on Fridays.

Alternatively you can view current applications on this website Planning Applications.

Some archive planning applications are also on this Website.

How can I comment on a current planning application?

If you wish to send a comment on any current planning application you can use the comment section.

How can I appeal against a decision?

If planning permission is refused then the applicant has a right of appeal. The applicant can also appeal against the imposition of any condition if planning permission has been granted or if the Council has failed to determine applications within 8 weeks.

Appeals must be made to the Planning Inspectorate (which is part of the Government's Office of the Deputy Prime Minister) within 3 months of the decision on a planning application. For an appeal form you will need to write to :-

The Planning Inspectorate, Room 307 Kite Wing, Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol, BS1 6PN,

or telephone on 0117 372 6372 or visit www.planning-inspectorate.gov.uk where you can download the appeal forms.

The time limit for appealing against decisions varies on other types of applications for example advertisements, enforcement notices and tree applications.

There are no rights of appeal against any decision for third parties.

All those making representations or applications are informed of any subsequent appeal.

The Appeals section provides information and guidance on the Appeals process. If you seek permission to carry out works to your property and your application isn't decided within a set period, or you get a decision from your local council that you disagree with, you have a right to appeal.

How can I learn more about town and country planning?

The Study section is designed to help people to teach or learn about town and country planning. It is a useful resource for teachers and students of Planning and those considering or pursuing a career in town and country planning.

How can I learn more about planning policy and reform?

The Research section of the Portal is aimed at planning professionals and those with an in-depth interest in planning policy and reform. You can obtain information on many issues including the Government's Planning Reform Programme, Parliamentary answers and statements on planning matters and you can view copies of Planning Policy.