As the local planning authority, we have the power to take enforcement action against anyone who is breaking planning law.

We have a team of four enforcement officers who investigate situations where we suspect that planning law is being broken.

Someone is considered to be breaking planning law when:

• they are developing a site without the planning permission that they need; or
• they are not meeting the planning conditions that were set when they were given approval to develop a site.

Enforcement issues can often be complicated. It may take us several weeks or months to investigate and research the matter.  Our officers are limited by strict laws relating to planning enforcement which clearly define what action they can and can't take. There will be times when enforcement law won't allow our enforcement officers to take further action on a case even when a person may be breaking planning law.

If you have a concern about a development or you would like to find out more about planning enforcement, you can phone the enforcement team on 01483 444626 or e-mail them. If you phone, an officer will usually ask you to write to them with the details. Although you need to include your name and address in this letter, we will keep your identity confidential (unless the situation results in an appeal).