Page maintained by
Forward Planning
Last updated: 17/8/2010
Expires: 30/9/2017
The Planning Portal
Launched by the Government in September 2002 the Planning Portal provides information and guidance on the planning system at the national level and is being developed to incorporate information specific to planning authorities throughout the UK. At present the Portal provides guidance on the Local Plans system and on how to submit a planning application. Please click here to view the Planning Portal website (external link).
Online Planning Offices
Provides information on all aspects of planning and building control including links to other useful sites.
West Midlands Planning Aid Service
West Midlands Planning Aid Service provides free and independent advice on planning issues to community groups and individuals who cannot afford professional fees. Please click here for further on Planning Aid, please click here. The West Midlands branch can be contacted at:
West Midlands Planning Aid Service
Unit 319, The Custard Factory
Gibb Street
Digbeth
Birmingham
B9 4AA
Telephone / Fax: (0121) 766 8044
E-mail: wmidlands@rtpi.org.uk
The Planning Advisory Service (PAS)
The PAS is the main source of information and advice for Local Planning Authorities (LPAs). Please click here to view their website.
The Planning Inspectorate (PINS)
The Planning Inspectorate (PINS) conducts examinations covering the Local Development Framework and acts as an independent body assessing on whether a Development Plan Document (DPD) is either 'sound' or 'unsound', which is then summarised in the published Inspector's Report. Each document is tested against the current nine tests of soundness which is stated within PPS12: 'Local Development Frameworks'. This system moves away from the former Local Plan system, where policies were scrutinised against conflicting representations. PINS also conduct planning appeals on planning applications. You can view the PINS website by clicking here.
