Doncaster Council

Case Officers

The case officer has a number of tasks in the process of assessing planning applications. These tasks can be grouped as;

• Pre-application discussions.  When developers or members of the public desire advice on proposed applications before they are formally submitted, then they can enter into pre-application discussions.  The planning officer will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of any proposals before an application is submitted.

• Application process.  When an application is allocated to a planning officer, the officer will go through the process of checking the validity of the application, undertake consultations and publicity, Site visits, negotiations with all consultees, assessing scheme against relevant policies and any concerns that has arisen from consultations.  Write draft report offering a recommendation.

• Additional tasks.  Complexed applications or applications that are causing local concerns normally create extra tasks that are dealt with by the planning officer.  They can include, providing guidance at meetings, forums and committee.  Write further supporting documents (e.g. appeal statements, statements of common ground) that would be used at appeals.  Also to provide specialist advice at planning hearings or enquires.

These tasks above are not exhaustive and other tasks may be required from planning officers as service delivery requirements change. 

If you do receive any correspondence from the office, it will be normally be from one of the planning officers regarding a scheme.  So please read carefully.