How we deal with planning enforcement complaints

In order to manage our workload efficiently, cases are dealt with on a priority basis. 

We are not able to register or start to deal with a complaint unless we have your name and contact details, as well as the following information:

• the site address or location
• what the development or activity is that is causing the harm
• when the development or activity began and as much information as you can give about it
• who you consider is responsible for the development or activity
• details of the way in which the development or activity is having a harmful impact on you

If you are worried about giving your details to us, you could contact your local ward councillor, who may make the complaint on your behalf.

What happens after you have made a complaint

We aim to register and acknowledge all complaints within 10 working days. We will update you at the following stages of the investigation:

• when we have found that a breach has or has not taken place
• when an enforcement notice has been issued
• if and when an appeal is made
• when an appeal is decided

You can contact the case officer, who will be identified on all correspondence, for an update on progress at other times. Enforcement cases can take a considerable amount of time to reach a conclusion.