We will continue to seek minor changes or amendments to schemes which can be approved, such as window positions and minor inaccuracies on the plans. However, where the changes result in additional workload, such as changes to floor areas and alterations to the design, in most cases, the applicant will be invited to address this through our in-app service.
Our in-app service is a discretionary service that seeks to resolve issues relating to current applications, ensuring that extensions of time are provided to cover the work.
This will also include additional details and information required in relation to discharge of conditions (DOCs) as set out in point four below.
This process does not guarantee approval, but in cases where a refusal is the only outcome, it will:
- give you the opportunity to address some of the concerns
- reduce the number of reasons for refusal
- help with any subsequent appeal
Where the in-app process is offered, it will initially give five days to enable the applicant to decide whether they want the application to be determined as submitted, or to engage with the in-app process, in which case they are required to submit their application using the form below. The in-app process allows up to two sets of revised plans to be submitted. If taken up, once the case officer has been informed payment has been made, the following process will be initiated.
- The case officer will endeavour, within ten working days, to provide a written assessment setting out the key concerns which resulted in the recommendation for refusal.
- You'll then be given 20 working days to submit an amended scheme seeking to address the issues raised. For larger or more problematical schemes, you can request a further extension of time to submit documentation. The onus will be on you to do so, as the case officer will determine the application if they are not approached to extend the time scale. If officers consider it beneficial to have a site or online meeting, they will contact you to arrange one. For DOCs see four below.
- Officers will then review the amendments and notify the applicant that either:
- they are satisfied with the amendments and will carry out the necessary administrative requirements to pursue a recommendation
- some further minor changes need to be made to ensure the plans are satisfactory and a further five working days will be given for this
- they will confirm that the recommendation for refusal remains and the reason(s) for this - in this instance, you will again be invited to withdraw the application or to have it determined in its original or revised format
- for DOCs, the in-app will remain open until the case officer is satisfied that either:
- the details are acceptable
- there is no further work to be done
- the applicant has failed to request a further extension of time
Eeach time amendments/additions are submitted, they will be subject to the in-app fee as set out in the fee schedule.
Contact us if you have any comments or concerns regarding this service.