Introduction to planning services

This page introduces the Council`s Planning Services, explaining what each has to offer, and what you as a citizen or customer can expect. Organisational details of each service are given, along with who to contact. Where service standards are applicable, these are clearly shown. It is hoped that this information will help you gain better access to the services offered and a better understanding of the planning process.

Planning Services regulate the use of land in the public interest and plan ahead to bring investment and development for a sustainable future. Other benefits include safeguarding our built and natural environment. The system often involves a difficult balancing act between competing interests and priorities.

The determination of planning applications and planning enforcement is the responsibility of the Planning Committee. Elected Members have the responsibility of deciding what is best in the wider public interest; they receive advice from Officers and carefully listen to the views of all parties involves. Different methods of public consultation are used, depending on the subject, so your views have every chance to be heard before decisions are made.

Many recent successful developments have been achieved through the collaboration between the Local Authority, private investors, the community, Central Government and other agencies. Advice is also given to the users of the services provided on how we can work together to make Wolverhampton a more successful City in the years to come.

Planning Services objectives

We aim to provide a responsive, effective and Best Value service to our users and the citizens of Wolverhampton, with the following objectives:

• to improve the social, economic and environmental well-being of everyone by ensuring a well planned and well built environment which is conducive to the creation of jobs, homes, culture and recreation, under conditions of safety, security and equal opportunity of access
• to contribute positively to the raising of the quality of life in association with a range of partners within a sustainable framework that provides best value for the existing community and future generations
• to support the development of strong communities, working together to tackle local concerns.