Where owners and occupiers propose change on a substantial scale, planning permission is likely to be required from the local planning authority, or in some cases from the Secretary of State.
If you are in doubt over the need for planning permission, you should check with your local council.
Information required
Applications for planning permission affecting a registered park or garden, whatever its grade, should be made to your local planning authority, for which a fee will be charged.
Applications should be accompanied by sufficient information to enable the planning authority to assess the likely impact of your proposals on the special interest of the registered park or garden.
The type and amount of information needed will vary in each case, but is likely to include at least:
- a plan of suitable scale showing the site, its location, size, extent and context
- a statement of significance, which demonstrates an understanding of the historical, archaeological and architectural interest of the site and in particular the significance of those areas affected by the proposed works
- photograpy dated, numbered and cross-referenced to a plan, showing the site and its setting in general and the area of proposed change in detail
How long will it take?
In England, once the local planning authority has accepted your application it must give notice of the application both to the local community and to the Garden History Society.
In the case of Grade I or II* registered parks and gardens, notice will also be given to English Heritage. Those notified are allowed 28 days in which to comment. Most applications are decided within eight weeks, although the most complex may take longer.
Applications may be granted with or without conditions or refused; if refused, an appeal may be lodged.
Generally, compensation is not payable following refusal of planning permission.
