Planning information
Gloucester is still open for business and we are aiming to progress all planning applications as far as possible in these stretching times
New applications
The best way to submit new applications is via Planning Portal. We have limited and infrequent access to the office and any paper applications will be delayed. Where possible please submit applications electronically.
Publicity for planning applications
Neighbour letters and media advertising will happen as normal.
In order to limit the spread of the Coronavirus (Covid-19), we are avoiding non-essential travel. Therefore, in most circumstances, site notices will be sent to applicants to display (with instructions) and will not be displayed by the Council.
Site visits
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation, we are unable to undertake physical site visits for some planning applications.
Therefore, to assist with a virtual site visit, applicants are requested to provide photos for householder planning applications. Depending on the location of the proposed works, it is recommended that the following photos be submitted with householder applications for planning permission.
More information on what photos we require.
Pre-application advice
Our pre-application service is continuing over the phone and by email. We will assess on a case by case basis whether a site visit service or face to face meeting can be offered.
Extension of Planning Permissions and Listed Building Consents
The Government have introduced a new 'interim' application type to allow applicants to extend their permissions that expired over the Coronavirus pandemic.
Certain planning permissions and listed building consents which have lapsed or are due to lapse during 2020 can be extended.
Types of applications that are automatically extended:
Full planning permission and outline planning permission
Unimplemented full planning and outline permissions with time limits for implementation which were due to lapse between 19 August 2020 (when the provisions came into force) and 31 December 2020 are extended to 1 May 2021. This happens automatically, with no requirement to obtain Additional Environmental Approval from the Local Planning Authority.
Reserved matters applications
Applications for the approval of reserved matters required under an outline planning permission which would otherwise expire between 23 March 2020 and 31 December 2020 are automatically extended to 1 May 2021.
Listed building consent
All listed building consents with a time limit for implementation between 23 March 2020 and 31 December 2020 will be automatically extended to 1 May 2021.
Additional Environmental Approval Applications
Types of applications requiring additional environmental approval:
Full planning permission and outline planning permission
Planning permissions and outline planning permissions which expired between 23 March 2020 and 19 August 2020 can be extended to 1 May 2021, subject to an Additional Environmental Approval being granted the Local Planning Authority. Please use our on-line form to apply
Applicants should submit applications no later than 2 December 2020.
Further information is available on: Extensions of planning permission and listed building consents
Construction working hours
Construction working hours
The Business and Planning Act has introduced a new route for applicants seeking to extend construction site working hours until 1 April 2021. The temporary fast track deemed consent route under section 74B of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 will enable changes to construction working hours to support safe construction working in line with latest social distancing guidance. This route does not apply to householder developments.
Further information is available here:
The Council will balance the protection of residents’ amenities with the need to get the construction industry back on its feet. To submit your application, complete this form.
The Council has 14 calendar days to consider an application. If an application is approved, this will temporarily amend construction working hours until 1 April 2021, unless another date has been agreed. If the application is not determined within 14 days (excluding public holidays), the revised working hours are deemed to have been consented to and construction can take place in accordance with these new hours.
We will be working with the suggested times government has advised and we will require safeguards and that you work to best practice.
Hours of Operation (referred to in the planning practice guidance)
- 7 am and 9pm Monday – Saturday
- No working on Sundays or public holidays etc
Safeguards
- Noise, dust and emission nuisance enforcement powers remain unchanged
- We will continually monitor the situation and reserve the right to revert to the original hours of work
- If government makes further announcements, we will update our approach accordingly.
Reminder on best practice
- In all cases, sympathetic site management should be demonstrated.
- Consideration should be given to undertaking quieter activities outside of usual building hours and restricting heavy vehicle movements including deliveries within the usual building hours.
- Be considerate of local residents, many are either working from home or confined to their homes during Covid-19
- Notify residents and any businesses likely to be affected before causing disruption (in writing).
- Notify the council of any planned, significant disruption so we are aware and can respond accordingly