Corner Stone Town Planning
What is a submission?
Many planning proposals such development applications, local structure plans, scheme amendments (to both regional and local planning schemes) and Local Planning Strategies are subject to public consultation.
Public consultation allows for interested parties to lodge a submission on a planning proposal. A submission is making comment on the proposal in support, objection or a submission may be neutral in nature.
Submissions provide the opportunity to be engaged in the planning process and provide comment to inform a planning authority in making a decision.
How do I lodge a submission
A planning authority may invite submissions on a planning proposal. Submissions may be invited through a letter or notice sent directly to you, advertising via a sign on site, print media or public consultation webpage.
No matter what form of notice is given a submission will need to be lodged by the date specified. In some instances, late submissions will be received, however it is best practice to lodge the submission prior to the closing date.
What makes an effective submission
A good planning submission is factually based, clear and concise. A good submission clearly identifies the desired outcome and explains the reasons supporting that position.
In making a submission it should be well thought out and have basis relevant to the applicable planning framework. You need to consider whether the issue that you are raising is a valid planning consideration, and a matter that is to be given regard by a planning authority.
Submissions may be accompanied by expert reports to assist in factually justifying the matters raised in the submission for example a traffic or noise report. Engaging an expert provides credible evidence for a decision maker to consider.
You also need to consider how long it will take to prepare and lodge a submission especially if you are engaging an expert to assist in providing specialist advice. You will need to make sure the submission is lodged prior to the closing date to ensure it is considered. Whilst late submissions may be considered, it is best to lodge on time.
Once a submission is lodged you should keep in contact with the planning authority to understand how the submission is to be considered and whether the planning proposal will be determined at a public meeting such as a Development Assessment Panel meeting. At such meetings there is often the opportunity to make a presentation to the planning authority to support your submission.
Conclusion
Effective submissions focus on planning considerations that are relevant to the proposal. These may include matters such as traffic impacts, noise, privacy, overshadowing, environmental impacts, neighbourhood character and consistency with planning instruments. Concerns that are not planning-related generally carry little weight in the decision-making process. By preparing a clear, evidence-based submission that addresses relevant planning matters, you can assist the planning authority in making an informed decision.
How can Cornerstone Town Planning help?
Cornerstone Town Planning can assist you with the preparation of a planning submission or lodge a submission on your behalf. Contact us today to see how we can assist.
