Commenting on a planning application
We believe it is important to give everyone the opportunity to have their say about planning applications in their area.
Comments must be in writing, by email or letter. Please include your name and full postal address.
Please bear in mind comments cannot be treated in confidence and will be available to the public.
Finding and understanding the application
Before you make any comments it is important to take the time to look at the application and understand the implications. You can view applications in two ways:
- online
- at the council offices at Penns Place in Petersfield
Online comments
You can use our online planning applications database to find applications and supporting information and to comment. There are several ways to find the application you are interested in:
- using the application number (this will be on any correspondence you have received from us)
- search for a street name, town or postcode
- using the application type or applicant's name
If you have a general interest in planning applications in your area, we publish a weekly list of all applications in each parish under 'Weekly List Search'.
Information about planning and the ability to submit an on-line application is also available through the Planning Portal.
If you don't have access to a computer at home, but would like to comment online, you can:
- get free internet access at a library
- visit the council information offices in Alton, Horndean or Liphook
- visit the council offices at Penns Place, Petersfield
At the council offices
You can visit the council offices at Penns Place, Petersfield, GU31 4EX and view the application online from Monday to Friday between 9 am and 5 pm.
You do not need to make an appointment.
What you can comment on
Comments must deal with issues relating to planning law. These include:
- local planning policies
- government advice
- the effect on the street or area
- size, layout and density of buildings
- design, appearance and materials
- adequacy of parking
- traffic generation and safety
- overlooking and loss of privacy
- noise and disturbance
- ground contamination
What you cannot comment on
- structural stability, fire precautions
- private drainage issues
- loss of property value
- disturbance from construction works
- competition
- boundary disputes
- rights of way
- covenants
- ownership rights
- moral or religious issues
Length of time to make comments
There is a deadline for comments on applications, normally twenty-eight days after registration. You can see the exact date for the end of the consultation period for a particular application by viewing it online.
Any comments received after this will not be taken into account.
Who you can talk to about the application
The case planning officer will be happy to discuss the application with you.
Your can also put your views to your local district councillor. However they will not be able to discuss the case as this may prevent them being able to speak about the application if it is to be decided by the planning committee.
What happens to comments
Any comments you make within the set time limit will be taken into account in reaching a decision. However, planning staff and councillors have to consider every aspect of the application and all relevant issues and the final decision may be contrary to your views.
We cannot take account of comments which:
- are anonymous
- do not give reasons for objecting
Please also note that signatures on petitions will not be counted as individual objections.
If you are still in doubt about making comments on an application please contact the case officer or e-mail planningdev@easthants.gov.uk
Related documents
Planning Aid