Pre- Application Discussions

Proposals for mineral extraction, waste facilities and County Council development can give rise to considerable concern to communities because of the potential environmental impact that such operations can have on a locality.  Therefore, Central Government advice encourages discussions to place between possible applicants and the local planning authority prior to submission of any applications.  

Preferably, developers should consult the planning authority and arrange a meeting at the proposed site to discuss potential environmental impacts prior to any application being submitted.  The discussions could include the following issues depending on the type of development proposed.

Notwithstanding the above, the developer may also need to consult the Environment Agency, the local Environmental Health Office on noise and dust, Natural England, English Heritage, the Forestry Commission and other parties with a material interest in the land, including statutory undertakers.

Government advice also encourages operators to seek screening and scoping opinions from the Mineral Planning Authority on the need for and content of Environmental Statements appropriate to the scale of the proposal and the sensitivity of the location.

We do ask that you put in writing prior to any meeting a description of your proposal, possible environmental effects and any information you feel would be relevant.  A location plan should also be attached so we are clear where the proposed development would take place.  The submission of information prior to any meeting allows officers to fully prepare for the meeting to ensure we give a clear account of what would be involved, what planning policies should be considered and if an Environmental Assessment would be required.