Development Control and Enforcement

Planning law requires that planning permission is required where development is involved.

We expect land owners and developers to comply with planning legislation and not carry out development until the obtain the necessary planning permission. When development does take place without permission the council has a full range of enforcement powers available to establish whether a breach of planning control has taken place, what harm is caused as a result of the breach and how to remedy the situation. 

When development is carried out without consent the Council will investigate the matter. Enforcement action is not mandatory. It is for the council to decide, based upon the details of each case, whether or not it is appropriate to take enforcement action.

Complaints

We aim to investigate cases within 10 working days of them being reported. Our planning and enforcement officers have 'right of entry' legal powers to gain access to premises or land (normally without an appointment). We will inform the owner or occupier of the findings of the site visit, setting out the breach that appears to be taking place and what enforcement action the council will consider. Complainants will be kept informed about the progress and any decisions the council makes.

Appeals against enforcement notices

Appeals can be made against enforcement notices to the Planning Inspectorate.

Reporting breaches of planning control

To report alleged breaches of planning control or if you believe something to be an unauthorised development, you can contact our Enforcement Team by email at:-

Phil Vernon - Planning Enforcement Officer Phil.vernon@pendle.gov.uk

Lee Greenwood - Enforcement Officer  Lee.Greenwood@pendle.gov.uk

Alternatively you can contact our Duty Officer between the hours of 8.30 am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday. Telephone 01282 661661 and ask for the duty Planning Officer