DARA Planning Insights: The Importance of Planning Appeals Amidst Recent SoCG Changes
November 2024
The UK government has recently announced new updates to the Statements of Common Ground (SoCG) guidance under Section 78 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. These updates are intended to streamline the planning appeals process, emphasising collaboration and clear documentation.
A statement of common ground is a written record containing factual information about the proposal, which is the subject of the appeal. It is prepared jointly by the appellant and the local planning authority. The recent update to SoCG guidance introduces several changes intended to accelerate the appeals process. These updates include the introduction of topic-specific SoCGs to refine case focus, stricter submission deadlines, and formatting improvements for clearer, more accessible documents. Collaborative preparation is encouraged to help resolve issues early, minimising procedural delays.
Key features of the revised guidance include:
- A detailed explanation of legislative requirements and relevant procedure rules
- The introduction of ‘topic-specific SoGCs’ to supplement the main SoCG
- Clear timelines for submitting SoCGs, emphasising the importance of meeting deadlines
- Guidance on collaboration between parties
- Recommendations for format and presentation, encouraging the use of searchable documents, tables, and diagrams
- Information on the legal weight of SoCGs and potential consequences of unreasonable conduct.
Planning appeals offer developers or landowners an avenue to challenge decisions from local planning authorities, especially when faced with project-restrictive conditions, refusals, or delayed decisions. Depending on the case’s complexity, appeals can range from simpler Written Representation Appeals, which involve only written submissions, to Hearing Appeals for more detailed cases requiring face-to-face discussions. For major projects or issues of significant public interest, Public Inquiries may be conducted, allowing witness testimonies and legal representation on both sides.
In light of these recent updates, DARA Planning continues to highlight the importance of expertise in navigating the evolving planning appeals process. With in-depth knowledge of the new guidelines, DARA Planning is well-equipped to guide clients through the structured framework, ensuring their cases are presented effectively and fully compliant with the latest standards. By combining strategic insight with a meticulous approach, DARA Planning helps clients achieve the best possible outcomes in a changing regulatory landscape.
DARA Planning's expertise is invaluable for those seeking successful outcomes in planning appeals. Their structured approach, commitment to detail, and specialist knowledge offer clients the confidence that their appeals will be handled with professionalism and precision. With DARA Planning, the complexities of planning appeals are expertly navigated so clients can proceed with confidence.