Permission in Principle guidance note
There is an increase in applications for Permission in Principle. This type of application has a limited range of factors that can be considered. We have produced a new Permission in Principle guidance note. This will help with understanding how to consider these applications and frame comments appropriately.
Help us to plan for the future
We're creating a plan for what Cornwall can become in the next 20 years.
It's all about finding ways to treasure what's important to you, while shaping places that can thrive in our changing world.
With your help, we'll shape the rules for local planning across Cornwall.
We're visiting locations all around Cornwall to talk to you about the Local Plan. Find a session near you by selecting the link below:Join us at a Local Plan drop in session
Building Safety Levy advance notice
The Building Safety Levy (BSL) is a charge that developers must pay on certain building control applications and notices. The levy will come into effect on 1 October 2026.
The levy will be charged on certain applications for works that result in:
- 10 or more new dwellings
- 30 or more new bedspaces in purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA)
This includes change of use to residential purposes. You can find more information on our Building Safety Levy webpage.
Upcoming changes to written representation appeals
The Planning Inspectorate announced proposed changes that aim to speed up decision making on 25 June 2025.
The majority of planning appeals decided via written representations will have simplified procedures by the end of 2025. This will include:
- Appeals against refusals of planning permission or reserved matters
- Appeals against the imposition of conditions, and
- Appeals against the refusal of prior notification or prior approval
The changes mean that the Planning Inspector will decide the appeal on the same basis and information as the planning application. The main parties will not need to submit new evidence.
Appeals on applications received before the revised regulations start will continue as before.
What these changes mean
Appellants would need to submit a copy of their application, Local Authority's decision notice and a brief statement in response and why they disagree. Appellants will not need to provide full Statements of Case. This will remove duplication and reduce documentation. There will be no final comments stage.
Local Planning Authority would be represented by it's officer/Committee report and decision notice. No additional appeal statement or final comments needed for the new route.
Interested parties will not need to repeat comments made at application stage. The LPA will share them with the Planning Inspectorate. There will be no opportunity to comment during the appeal process.
You can find more information at Upcoming changes to written representation appeals GOV.UK
Planning news Summer 2025
We have published our Summer planning newsletters:
- Planning News for Local Councils and Agents
You can find links to these newsletters on our Planning News page.
Our next newsletter is due in October 2025.