Pre-Application Advice for Major Developments
New regulations mean that applicants intending to submit a major or national application must carry out a community consultation exercise before a formal planning application is made. This pre-application consultation (PAC) is a statutory requirement for planning applications submitted to the Council from 3rd August 2009. More details are available via the link below:
Recognising the benefits of early pre-application advice, the Highland Council Major Development Team has established a series of regular meetings which give developers the opportunity to discuss their proposals with officials from across Council services and other agencies. This service is not compulsory but we would actively encourage developers to make use of the opportunity. More details are available via the link below:
Pre-Application Advice for Local Developments
Following a successful pilot in Ross & Cromarty, we have restructured and standardised the way in which we deal with with pre-application advice requests for local developments.
We have done this in order to enhance the level of service and standard of advice provided to our customers, and improve speed of delivery and consistency. This new service is free and is open to all developments not classified as Major or National (for which a separate advice service is available).
The new process includes a defined response period, a standardised application form and a minimum level of supporting information. Using the service will help you to identify and address material issues at an early stage and may speed up the determination of any future planning application.
Other than brief verbal advice which can still be given over the phone or in person at the planning office, all pre-application advice requests must now be made using the new services (electronically or via post).
The application form and guidance notes are available below:
Please contact your local planning office for further advice, the contact details and locations of our offices can be found here.
Pre-Application Advice for Small Business Development
At the Highland Council, we recognise that delays in dealing with development proposals by small businesses can have a negative financial impact and can affect local employment and economic growth. In particular, we recognise that an efficient and responsive planning system has an important role to play in maintaining the vibrancy and resilience of our business sector. As such we have published this guide for small businesses which we hope will work towards ensuring an efficient planning application process from the outset by providing appropriate advice for applicants.