As of 12th May 2025 Fermanagh and Omagh District Council requires all planning applications to be accompanied by a Planning Statement.
Not all local authorities require a supporting statement in order to make an application for planning permission valid, but having one as part of your application package can smooth the path to a speedier grant of planning permission.
A planning statement should demonstrate that all issues pertaining to the proposed development, in particular the Local Development Plan, have been properly considered, and, should set out the case for granting planning permission. Any matters that relate to a development for which planning permission is sought are referred to as “material considerations”, and, the planning authority is required to take them into account when considering an application for planning permission. A Planning Statement prepared by a town planner can help to guide the planning authority in its assessment of the material considerations. Sometimes one material consideration could have the effect of contradicting another, and it may be necessary to make a case as to which one should attract the most weight. The weighing up of the various considerations is important especially where a site might have a complicated planning history.
I have written numerous planning statements both for planning applications and at planning appeal level. I can act as your planning agent directly in making an application for planning permission or making a planning appeal. I am also happy to provide planning statements for other agents, plan drawers, and architects.