Planning applications

The LRA Plans Group looks at all planning and licensing applications in Loughton. Where appropriate we put in objections – or letters of support. On occasion we will deliver letters to local residents, telling them what is proposed, and encouraging them to comment.

The Local Plan sets a limit of not more than 30% non-retail property in the “Key Retail Frontage” on the High Road and The Broadway. This limit has already been exceeded on the High Road, and so the Plans Group will normally object to any new application for a change of use from retail to non-retail in the High Road Key Retail frontage.

We also monitor closely any applications which involve the loss of trees or off-road parking space, or which would tend to alter the character of a particular road or neighbourhood, such as blocks of flats in areas consisting of houses.

To see the details of a current or earlier planning application, go to the District Council website

Parking in front gardens
We know that parking can cause great problems, and that parking in front gardens is still on the increase. Please note that

• the County Highways department can issue a direction to residents to stop driving over an un-dropped kerb, or can send you a substantial bill to install a dropped kerb - these are installed only if residents pay
• on A roads, like Loughton High Road (A121) you may need planning permission for a dropped kerb as well
• there are now strict rules about paving or concreting over your front garden.

Wondering whether you need planning permission?
Have a look at the simple visual guides at http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/england/government/tools/house/

Planning home alterations
If you’re planning to make improvements, pave over your front garden, or install solar panels, then check the District Council website first. Many developments require Building Regulation Approval as well as Planning Permission.

• Planning Permission is primarily concerned with where a development is built, the impact on its surroundings and whether it is in keeping with its environment.
• Building Regulations are more concerned with how a development is built, its structural strength and safety. Additionally some developments that do not require Planning Permission will require Building Regulation Approval.

http://www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/Council_Services/planning/iPlan.asp and http://www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk/council_services/planning/building_control/do_i_need_building_regulations.asp

Regional Planning Regime
Communities and Local Government Secretary Eric Pickles has told councils and the Planning Inspectorate that the regional planning regime for England should no longer carry any weight in terms of planning decisions - decisions on housing supply “will rest with LPAs without the framework of regional numbers and plans”.
[We will have to wait to see precisely what this means, but we are hopeful that it is the end of regional targets set without any consideration for local conditions.]