For your information
A small number of residents have reported seeing an error message when submitting comments on applications using our online form. If this occurs your text may be lost.
The cause of this is being investigated. Until this can be resolved you are advised to copy and paste your comments into a file on your device before submitting them.
This way, if you receive an error message you can copy and paste your comments into an email to us instead planning@oldham.gov.uk
Please ensure that any emails include the application number in the subject field and include your name and address below your comments.
The case officer will consider all comments received – regardless of whether made through the website or by email. This includes those received after the consultation deadline provided the officer has not processed their recommendation.
Please also be advised that due to the volume of comments received by the Planning Department, we are unable to respond to individual comments received.
We apologise for any inconvenience caused.
Search
There are several ways that you can search online for planning applications including:
- By application number - please enter the six-digit number only
- By address
- By date decided or validated
- On a map
Search for a planning application on a map
What if your application isn't online yet?
It may take up to 5 working days for plans and documents associated with applications to appear online.
The Statement of Community Involvement sets out how the community are consulted on planning applications.
Comment or object to a planning application
You will need to register for an account on our planing portal before you can search for, or make a comment on, specific planning applications.
Acknowledging your comments
You will receive an acknowledgement in response to submitting comments on-line.
If you have commented on an application (or if you were originally notified of the proposal) and a decision is to be made by the Planning Committee (rather than by the Head of Planning Services) you will be informed of the meeting date.
Speak at committee
Some planning applications are heard by the Planning Committee.
Confidentiality
Any letters submitted are open to be viewed and copied by the applicant or other members of the public and as such cannot be treated as confidential or kept private. This is to conform with the requirements of Section 100(1) of the Local Government Act 1972.
Taking account of your views
The Council takes into account all representations it receives, but it can only make its decision on planning grounds.
By law, certain matters must be considered. This is not a definitive list but they include:
- Local Planning Policies - the Oldham Local Plan sets out the Council's planning policies.
- Government advice as set out in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), National Planning Policy Guidance and regional planning guidance.
- Comments from neighbours.
- Comments from consultees.
The Council can only take into account those comments that are directly relevant to the planning process such as:
- Loss of amenity
- Privacy
- Outlook
- Traffic issues
- Noise
- Nuisance
Matters that cannot be taken into account include:
- Reduction in property values
- Loss of views
- Private rights of way
- Ownership matters
- Disturbance during construction
These are issues that should be pursued separately, either as a private legal matter or through other legislation.