Brightlingsea Town Council has expressed its exasperation and deep concern following notification from Tendring District Council of significant changes to the planning application process, which the District Council is required to implement following Government direction from 31 October 2026.
Under the new arrangements, all but the largest planning applications will be dealt with by Planning Officers and the Chair of the Planning Committee. Local District Councillors will also lose their ability to “call in” applications for consideration by the full Planning Committee.
Only applications meeting specific Government-set criteria will be eligible for consideration by the full Committee.
Brightlingsea Town Council is concerned that these changes will significantly reduce the opportunity for local knowledge and community concerns to influence planning decisions.
Town and Parish Councils have an important understanding of their local environment, infrastructure, heritage and community needs. The Council believes this local knowledge is an essential part of a fair and effective planning process.
The Council is particularly disappointed that such significant changes have been introduced without consultation or debate with local councils.
