Planning Objections! Why?

Why do people object to planning applications in their neighbourhood?

Sometimes very valid reasons.... as I've seen some shocking and very poor applications in my time, that a 5 year old could design better!

But often the general theme can be a lack of understanding about a proposed development, perhaps the benefits have not been articulated correctly in the application or the objector has just not looked in detail at the plans or read the reams and reams of documents that we often submit with an application that provide the justification (which is understandable).

Deep rooted in general I find is deep down it's a fear of change.... the unknown.... many unanswered 'what if's'....

So ... 'what if' you are a home owner or a developer do you do, if you get objections from residents to your application.... my advice.... try not to be upset / frustrated / annoyed.... and don't just ignore them:

(i) consider the reasons why they are objecting - often it can be a cumulative impact of other developments that are going on in an area for example fear of additional traffic and parking congestion;

(ii) it will 'devalue' their home.... this is not a material planning reason to object to a planning application and can be a perception;

(iii) if they are design based objections.... do consider where changes could be made, if they can't be made then at least evidence to the local authority that at least the comments have been considered and why they can't be accommodated.

Of course in so many instances change is necessary.... just like the seasons....