Planning application process

How long does it take for a decision

Small-scale minor applications are normally decided within eight weeks, while larger more complex major applications are normally decided within 13 weeks, although these may take longer depending on the nature of the proposal.

Large and complex developments may benefit from a Planning Performance Agreement to facilitate bespoke project management.

Validation of applications

Once an application is submitted, it will be checked to ensure that all the required information and fee have been received. If further information is required, we aim to let you know within five working days of receipt. Once all the required information and the correct fee have been received the application will be registered as valid and the formal consultation and assessment process will begin.

Public consultation on applications

Consultations on Planning Applications are carried out to make sure that people who may be affected are aware of the application, and have an opportunity to comment.

How widely we consult depends on the nature of the planning application. In summary, we will carry out some or all of the following:

• Publish all application submissions on our website
• Contact occupiers of properties directly affected and in some cases local amenity groups and appropriate statutory bodies
• Give 21 days (from the date of the letter) for people to submit written comments
• Place a site notice or notices on or close to the site
• Publish an application in the local newspaper.

For a detailed breakdown of consultations, you can download the Statement of Community Involvement, which outlines how communities can be involved with the planning process and planning decisions in Islington.

Please note that planning applications and representations received about them are made available for public inspection and also published on the internet (with due regard to the provisions of the Data Protection Act).

Assessing planning applications

All applications are assessed against the adopted policies of the development plan. The planning case officer responsible for the application will:

• If necessary undertake a site visit to inspect the site and surroundings
• Assess the details of the drawings and information submitted
• Take note of any comments raised by interested parties

The case officer will then make a recommendation to either approve or refuse the application.

Revisions to planning applications prior to determination

In some circumstances the case officer may request amendments, often known as revisions, to the proposed development. Although there is no statutory requirement to accept revisions they will be accepted in limited circumstances, where time allows. There will be a set time period in which to provide amended drawings, usually within very specific timeframes. If substantial amendments are required to make the proposal acceptable then you will be offered the opportunity to withdraw the application and resubmit it in an amended form.

Making a decision

Applications are usually either approved with conditions or refused. Most planning applications are decided by the Head of Service under delegated powers.

But many applications are presented to the Planning Committee for a decision. The Committee Agendas are published in advance and the meetings are open to the public to attend - visit Democracy in Islington for more details. The Planning Committee and its sub-committees are held in person at Islington Town Hall.

Anyone who submits comments or objections to a development is invited to attend the meeting. If you would like to speak or participate at the meeting as an applicant, a supporter or an objector, you must tell us at least 24 hours before the meeting by emailing enquiries@islington.gov.uk. 

It is not guaranteed that you will be able to speak because this is up to the Chair. If many people want to speak on a single item, the Chair may limit the number of people who can speak at the meeting. In these circumstances, the Chair will provide an interlude to allow people to organise themselves. This is in line with our usual practice.

Remember to check the Democracy in Islington web pages and the Agenda for the Committee meeting on a regular basis as the information is subject to change and may be updated. 

Appeal

If your application is refused you have the opportunity to appeal against the decision. All appeals are considered by independent planning inspectors employed by the Planning Inspectorate.

Appeals can be expensive and time-consuming. It is a good idea to consult the planning case officer who dealt with the application before you appeal, to see if there is any scope for negotiation. It may be possible to agree on a new application that will meet the Council's requirements.

You have a right to appeal if:

• your application has been refused
• your application has been allowed with condition(s) and you wish to challenge the requirement for condition(s)
• your application has not been determined within the statutory timeframe
• you have received an enforcement notice

Appeal forms and information booklets explaining how to appeal are available from the Planning Portal.