We exercise discretion on whether to request or accept amendments to a planning application under consideration. Upon receipt of an application, we expect it to be:

• supported by relevant information and
• in a condition to be fully assessed and determined as submitted.

On that basis our normal position is not to seek or accept amendments after validation. We emphasise this approach by encouraging all to engage in the pre-application service.

We will not accept unsolicited amendments. Please do not seek amendments in response to an objection unless first cleared with your planning case officer.

Guidance on amendments

This guidance will help you understand when we will/will not request or accept amendments to planning applications.

Unless there are exceptional circumstances, we will only seek an amendment under either or both of these 2 conditions:

1. Further analysis of the case means more information or clarification is needed.  It must be needed to complete the assessment of the scheme. For example, cross sectional or levels details drawings;
2. Amendments of a minor nature that would improve the scheme. This must be a necessary improvement where it would not require additional consultation or more detailed third party expert advice.

We will:

• help you consolidate minor changes (that result in an improved scheme) into a single request
• only accept one round of amendments to a submitted scheme.

This means we will not generally accept amendments to planning applications if/for:

1. they trigger the need for a fresh 21-day consultation (assessed on an individual basis)
2. an increase in size of or material change to the red edge site boundary unless requested by the LPA
3. a significant move or relocation of footprint and/or volume and mass of built form
4. introduction of materially different uses
5. conflict with development plan policies
6. materially increase the visual impact of the development
7. materially increase the amenity impact of the development on a feature of recognised sensitivity
8. increase in the impact on a heritage asset
9. exacerbate concerns raised by third parties.

This is not an exhaustive list.