Tendring District Council (TDC) has launched a new pre-application service to help streamline the planning process in the district.
The initiative is designed to provide comprehensive support to developers, architects, and homeowners ahead of submitting a planning application.
The council’s team of experienced planners will provide detailed advice and expert guidance on planning policies, potential issues, and the likelihood of approval.
Early feedback on proposals will help identify and address potential challenges before a formal application is submitted.
The service will connect with a range of external consultees, including Essex Highways Authority and Essex Place Services, while the new application forms are simpler and easier to follow.
A dedicated area on the council’s Planning Services website has been created to provide full guidance and links to all necessary information to submit a pre-application.
As part of the updated service, the response will include a full brochure detailing planning history, consultee responses, next steps, and the council’s view on the proposed works.
Andy Baker, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, said: “We are very pleased to announce the launch of our new pre-application advice service.
“While a service has historically been available, it was not being used to its full potential with many developers submitting full applications as if they were a pre-application.
“This led to many amendments to planning applications being required, which takes considerable time to work through, while it was also unclear to many what the fees were and what information an applicant should provide.
“Following a thorough review, the new service is easier to navigate, transparent and provides a robust opinion to any enquiry received.
“We want residents to be able to take pride in our services and this will enable people to have confidence in our planning processes.”
For more information about the new planning pre-application service, visit the TDC website at tendringdc.gov.uk/departments/pre-application.
