Published: Tuesday 27 October 2026
We’re introducing a new way for councillors and residents to continue having their say on planning applications, following upcoming changes to national rules.
From 31 October, the Government’s new National Scheme of Delegation will mean more planning applications are decided by planning officers rather than elected councillors.
We’re the first council in the country to introduce a new approach – the Member Representation Meeting – to make sure councillors can continue to raise residents’ concerns and share their local knowledge before decisions are made.
Cllr Johnny Thalassites, Lead Member for Resident Services, Planning and Enforcement, said:
“The Government is changing how planning decisions are made, and our priority is making sure that doesn’t mean losing the local knowledge and experience that elected members and residents bring to the process.
“Our councillors and residents know their neighbourhoods and understand the issues that matter, so we have found a practical, innovative way to make sure their voices continue to be heard while working within the new national rules.
“We are the first council in the country to take this approach in response to the new rules. It means we can meet our legal obligations without losing the incredibly valuable perspectives of the people who know our communities best.”
What's changing?
Under the new rules, smaller planning applications, including house extensions and developments of up to nine homes, will be decided by planning officers rather than our Planning Committee.
Larger or more complicated applications may still go to the committee, but only if they meet criteria set by the Government.
How will we make sure local voices are heard?
We're introducing Member Representation Meetings so councillors can raise residents' concerns within the confines of the new rules and share their local knowledge before decisions are made on certain planning applications.
These meetings can consider smaller applications, as well as some larger applications that won’t go to Planning Committee.
Councillors’ views will be recorded and considered, but planning officers will still make the final decision.
Councillors and planning officers can ask for applications to be discussed at these meetings. Applications receiving five or more objections will also be considered for inclusion.
Can I still have my say on planning applications?
Yes. The way you comment on planning applications is not changing.
You can still share your views through our usual planning consultation process, and your comments will be considered before decisions are made.
You can also continue to contact your ward councillors if you have concerns about a proposed development.