The easiest way to apply for planning permission is on the Planning Portal website. When you do this, your application is transferred automatically to us.
Some consent types are not available through the online system. You must apply for these by email – we can not accept applications by post.
You can download application forms on the Planning Portal website. Send the completed form to us at planning@greatercambridgeplanning.org.
We aim to process all applications within 10 working days of receiving them.
Assemble the necessary documentation
Every planning application needs a site location plan and block plan showing the location and boundaries of the site you're planning to work on. The Planning Portal’s ‘Buy a Plan’ service can help to ensure that you meet these requirements.
You also need refer to the local list [PDF, 0.1MB], local supplementary list [PDF, 29Kb] and acceptable file guidance [PDF, 29Kb]. These contain further information that will be required to process your application.
Failure to submit a completed application form with all the required documents will result in your application being delayed. It’s best to submit any information that relates to your application at the outset of your submission.
Calculate the fee
All fees need to be paid before an application can be considered.
- Use the Planning Portal’s online fee calculator to work out the fee for your specific application.
- Or download the national planning fee sheet from the Planning Portal.
Pay
If you submit your application through the Planning Portal website you must pay online at the time. Your application will not be released to us until you have paid. The Planning Portal provides guidance for paying online [PDF].
If you're sending in a printed application, call our Customer Service Centre on 01223 457200 to pay over the phone.
How we handle your personal data
We will publish the applicant’s names and address as these form part of the statutory planning register. We mask personal signatures, email addresses and phone numbers before the documents are published online.
Our privacy notices and retention policy [PDF, 0.7MB] provides information on how we collect, store and process your data within the Planning service. If you require a hard copy of the statement, contact us at planning@greatercambridgeplanning.org or phone 01223 457200.
If you notice something that causes you concern, contact us using the details above. Note the application reference number and document details and we will do our best to resolve the matter.
The application process
Full details can all be found on our planning process page, which includes:
- the planning application process
- how long it takes
- how the decision is made
- how you can attend and speak at a planning committee
- where and how application decisions are publicised
- starting your development or gaining further approval
Glossary of planning terms
The Planning Portal Glossary is a summary of phrases relating to land use and planning matters in England only. It covers a variety of issues ranging from new development and regeneration, to conservation and environmental protection.
