Dorset Council has revised its pre application advice service regime – along with revised (increased) fees for the advice. This is a link to the detailed guidance.
d2c54a12-7c56-c137-5e7a-710ade7dea23 (dorsetcouncil.gov.uk)
This advice incorporates a response from • Conservation officer • Tree officer • Landscape officer • Planning policy officer • Urban design officer • Dorset Council building control (first hour free) • Section 106/Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Team • Environmental assessment – environmental assessment and nutrient neutrality • Planning enforcement.
Like most schemes, the charging scheme is broken down by application type and whether a site meeting is requested.
Some basic headlines –
- Householder £260; listed building £495 if a site visit is requested; 1 to 2 residential units – written £610 or with site meeting £970. Prices rise to £2340 for written advice on 25 to 149 residential units or £2895 if a site meeting is agreed.
A validation advice surgery is offered at a cost of £100 for householders and listed building applications.
In terms of timescales, the Council explain they aim to acknowledge a request within 3 working days of receiving it. Within 10 working days the case officer will make an initial assessment of the submitted information and will advise if for example they need additional information. Response time is 6 to 8 weeks (12 weeks for major developments) from receipt of the fee and all the information requested.
It is worth noting that in cases where unvalidated applications are withdrawn the Council will retain an administrative charge of £50.00.
Alan Davies (Associate Director) welcomed the clarity in the guidance and the inclusion of service delivery times.
