Belfast City Council is offering useful guidance on the planning process with its two new documents.

The local authority published a a four-page 'Guide To The Planning Application Process' and two-page 'Application Checklist'.

The 'Guide To The Planning Application Process outlines the following:

• the role of the Council in making planning decisions;

• the relevant legislation;

• what the Council can consider when making planning decisions;

• the different types of planning consent;

• how to submit a planning application;

• the Council's pre-application discussion (PAD) service;

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• how the Planning Department processes applications, including its commitment to good customer service;

• the role of the Planning Committee;

• how to comment on, or object to, an application;

• what happens after a planning decision is made;

• enforcing planning regulations; and

• the right of appeal if an application is refused.

It also includes the Planning Department's service standards and a simple process map.

The 'Application Checklist' features the basic information the Planning Department requires by law in order to process an application, and the additional information which is needed to fully assess an application

Councillor Matt Garrett, Chair of the Planning Committee, said: "Ever since planning powers transferred to local councils in 2015, we have been constantly seeking to improve the service we offer to both our ratepayers and those wishing to invest in our city.

"Applying for planning permission can seem very complicated and a daunting prospect for many. These new publications seek to walk people through the process, by using plain language and explaining both what we need from applicants and what they can expect from us."

(CM/MH)