Development Management is about striking a balance between the need for new development such as housing, industry, leisure and shopping facilities and the need to protect both the natural and built environment and quality of life within the District. At an individual level, it can be about balancing your need to extend your house against the impact that extension may have on your neighbour’s property.
Planning Applications
The Planning Application process allows this balance to be struck because in determining an Application, the Council has to have regard to its own planning policies as well as those of central government and take into account other material considerations. These are usually any views expressed by Community Councils, amenity groups and neighbours or any responses from statutory consultees such as the Roads Service and Scottish Water, on water supply and drainage issues. In all cases we have to deal with each Application on its merits.
The Council is committed to involving the general public in as much of the planning process as possible. Community Councils, community groups and associations, tenants groups and individual members of the public are encouraged to become involved in all aspects of the Council's planning functions. Local opinion on planning matters is essential and helps Councillors and Officers reach a balanced view on planning proposals.