Applying for planning permission is about to get quicker, cheaper and simpler as new measures are due to be introduced to overhaul the planning process in Dudley borough.

Subject to approval by cabinet on September 13, Dudley Council’s planning department will adopt a new Local Development Order to allow people to obtain written consent for single or two storey, rear or side extensions without the need to apply for planning permission.This will make the process much quicker, cheaper and simpler as long as the proposal complies with the adopted design guidance and standards which can be viewed here. 

As part of the new measures, the council is also introducing a new way for people to find out about planning applications in their area. The council is launching a new email alert system called My Alerts, which will allow residents and businesses to sign up to receive an email alert when a new planning application is registered within a selected area. This will replace the council’s old system of writing to residents. Notices will continue to be displayed in the local area.

A new process is going to be implemented for people to raise any planning related issues or concerns. The planning enforcement plan outlines key areas such as the purpose and legal basis for planning enforcement, what can be investigated, how a planning enforcement issue is reported, and what happens when a valid complaint is received.

As part of the measures, the council will also introduce a charge for written pre-application advice. Advice on householder developments, outdoor advertising, listed buildings and conservation areas, protected trees and change of use will now all be charged for.

People will still be able to get free, over the phone advice. Please be aware pre-application advice does not guarantee approval of a planning application. Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of the council, said:

“These changes focus on creating a smoother, quicker and cheaper process for those wanting to make changes to their home, as well as utilising the digital platform in a more practical way.

"In addition, this is a more cost effective way for the council to operate, freeing up time for staff to focus on large scale developments in our local area.”

These changes will come into effect on October 2, and details of the individual changes can be accessed here.