} How we consult on planning applications
} How to comment
} What happens when you comment?
} Letting you know the outcome


How we consult on planning applications

All planning applications need to be publicised in at least one way by the Council and notified to a wide range of individuals, expert, representative bodies and other community groups. All those who might be affected by a planning application need to be able to have their say.

The publicity takes three forms:

l A notice posted on the site
l Individual letters to adjacent and/or nearby properties
l Publication of a notice in a local newspaper

All applications can be viewed by clicking on the E-Access link.

The type(s) of publicity that applies to an application is defined by legislation, but often supplmented voluntarily by the Council.

l E-Access (our online database) allows you to check in real time what applications have been received.

l Application forms, documents and plans can be viewed on-line via UKPlanning (or link from E-Access).

l Individual consultation letters are sent to neighbours who we consider are likely to be affected by a proposal. You will normally have at least 21 days to comment.

l In addition to consulting the general public, the Council also has a responsibility to consult a range of statutory consultees.  These can include, for example: Town and Community Councils, Elected Members, Environment Agency, Environmental Health, Highways, Cadw and Welsh Water.

l Notices are published in the local paper and/or displayed on or close to the site (for at least 21 days) for many applications, including 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.

How to comment

Comments may be made by anyone, regardless of whether they were consulted individually. We welcome any comments, whether in support of an application or objecting to it, although the council can only take account of "planning considerations".

These include matters like the effect on traffic or parking, the appearance of the proposal, overlooking or disturbance, loss of light or privacy, impact on the local environment and whether the proposed use is suitable.

We cannot take into account matters like loss of property value, private disputes between neighbours, matters covered by leases or covenants, the impact of construction work, and competition between firms.

Comments should be submitted as soon as possible, although the council will take into account any representations received up to the date it makes a decision. Comments should be made in writing, by individual letter or petition, wherever possible. Comments can also be made via E-Access or UKPlanning or by emailing planning@carmarthenshire.gov.uk. Comments will be acknowledged by post within 3 working days of receipt.

What happens when you comment?

Your comments and opinions will be taken into account when we make a decision on the planning application.

Your comments will be placed on the planning application file, which is a public document, available for anyone to look at.

Your comments will be included in the Committee Report when the views are contrary to the recommendation of the officer.

Letting you know the outcome

It is not always possible to respond individually to comments, but if you have commented you will be informed of the council's decision.

A copy of the decision notice will be available to view on-line.

Only the applicant can appeal against the decision but, if an appeal is made, you will be notified and will then have the opportunity of making further representations to the Government Planning Inspector dealing with the appeal.