How we decide on applications

After a planning application has been submitted we'll publish the application on this website for people to view and comment on it. You can register to be kept informed as the application progresses.

We'll write to any affected property owners inviting them to comment.
Where relevant, we'll advertise the application on site and in the local media.
We'll visit the site and surroundings to assess the impact of the application.
We'll assess the proposal against national and local planning policies, taking into account comments received and any relevant documents.
The decision on whether or not to grant the application will either be made by a planning officer or by the relevant planning committee. We decide all planning applications in accordance with the Delegation scheme (126kb pdf file).
Where the application is to be decided by the one of the council's committees the meeting agendas will be available a week before the meeting. Meetings are open to the public. We'll notify the applicant, agent, and anyone who has commented in writing about a week before to let them know the details of the committee meeting. Details of Council agendas, reports and minutes.
We can grant permission, with appropriate conditions if necessary, or refuse permission. We'll give reasons for our decision based on relevant planning issues.
We'll publish the decision on this website and notify the applicant or agent of the decision. Search for the decision using the application number or address.
The applicant has a right to appeal a refusal or any conditions associated with approval. Appeals are dealt with by the Planning Inspectorate. More about appealing a decision.

Planning and Regulation
Number One Riverside
Smith Street
Rochdale OL16 1XU

Tel: 0845 121 2973
Email: Development Control