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Development control

Probably the most familiar aspect of a planning service relates to the submitting and processing of planning applications.

In Rochdale this work is handled by the Development Control section.

We provide the following services:

  • Advice on the need for permission
  • Advice and pre-application discussions on development proposals
  • Process planning applications 
  • Preservation of important trees and sites of interest
  • Declaration of conservation areas
  • Support for and monitoring of listed buildings
  • Control of advertisements
  • Monitoring and control of minerals, extraction and waste procedures
  • Enforcement of breaches of development control

For further advice, or if you have any queries, you can contact the Development Control section using the contact details above. A duty Planning Officer is available between the hours of 9am to 4.45pm. All other Planning Officers are available by appointment only.

We deal with between 1200 and 1800 applications every year, averaging 40 applications a week, covering all aspects of the Town and Country Planning Act legislation, across Rochdale. We process the applications given to us by members of the public, aiming to give applicants a decision within eight weeks of registration. 

Submitting a planning application

Do I need to apply for Planning Permission?

The erection of new buildings, extensions to buildings or changes of use of land or buildings generally require planning permission from the Council. There are, however, exceptions for mainly smaller scale works, which are permitted by national regulations and known as 'Permitted Development.'  If you first want to check whether your proposal requires permission, you can send us details using our enquiry form.

This form should be emailed with any drawings or plans attached or posted using the contact details above. You will be informed if permission is required within a maximum of fourteen days. If we decide you do need permission we will send you the forms and guidence notes to apply for planning permission. If permission is not required keep the letter we send you as confirmation.

 How do I apply for planning permission?

Applying for planning permission is quite straightforward. In general terms your application must be accompanied by plans and drawings of the site, details of any proposed works and in most cases a fee. You must also complete a certificate to confirm that you own the land or have notified all owners of the land of your intentions.  It is important that you complete the correct application forms for the type development you are proposing. You can find information on the different types of planning applications and links to applications forms and guidance from the following page.

For comprehensive advice on planning matters the planning portal also offers detailed guidence and support.