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Planning Applications
LRA Planning Group
The
LRA Planning Group keeps a watchful eye on all planning applications
that might affect Loughton, both large (e.g., Sainsbury's) and small
(e.g., house extensions). Residents are also encouraged to voice
their views.
Role of the District Council
The Epping Forest District Council (EFDC) is responsible for dealing
with planning applications and publishes a weekly list of new ones.
This list, along with the actual applications, can be viewed at
the EFDC office (next to Loughton Library) on Traps Hill or on the EFDC website.
The LRA Planning Group voices any concerns it has regarding an application to the EFDC.
The Loughton Town Council also provides a view.
Town Council Planning Committee
The Town Council Planning Committee considers all planning applications
and passes its recommendations to the EFDC. The agendas for these
meetings are available in the town council office
and in the EFDC Traps Hill office. Most planning applications are
determined by EFDC officers, but some are considered by plans
committees made up of district councillors, by the District Development
Control Committee or, if necessary, by the full Town Council.
Objecting to a planning proposal
If you want to object to an application but are unsure where to begin,
follow this step-by-step guide to help you. There is a strict
time limit on making objections so be sure to voice your objection
within the time limit:
1) Let your Ward Councillor know of the grounds for your concern (see the list of LRA councillors or email contact@loughtonresidents.co.uk ).
2) Write your own letter of objection to Epping Forest District Council.
3) Write to Loughton Town Council.
4) If other residents agree with you, get them to write too.
5) Objectors to applications (as well as promoters) have the right to
be heard at both the Town Council and the District Council planning
committees. If you wish to speak at either of the meetings, call
01992 564000 (district) and/or 020 8508 4200 (town) as soon as possible.
6) Don't forget that planning applications are determined on planning grounds, so your objection must be based on these criteria. The LRA's David Linnell (020 8508 2932) may be able to help you or you may need to consult a professional advisor.
LRA Councillors
A number of our district and town councillors serve on planning
committees. They are not involved in drafting our planning
group's comments or objections.
District Council portfolio holders (or cabinet members) do not
influence or comment on particular planning applications. Under
the 'modernised' council structure these 'development control'
decisions are the province of non-executive councillors.
Making a decision
In considering planning applications, our district and town councillors
maintain open minds until they have heard all the evidence and
arguments. They then use their personal judgement - in line with
a national Code of Conduct and the planning laws - as elected
representatives of the wider community. Therefore, they may
sometimes take a different view from the comments or objections made by
the LRA Planning Group or other members of the LRA committee.

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