Planning Applications in Stafford

Planning applications in Stafford — extensions, new housing, changes of use, demolitions — are decided by Stafford Borough Council. Every application is public: you can search what's been submitted near you, read the plans, and have your say before a decision is made.

Search current applications

The council's planning portal lets you search by address, postcode, street or application reference, and shows the full documents for each application:

Search planning applications →

Commenting and objecting

Anyone can comment on an application — you don't have to live next door. Comments must be about material planning considerations: things like overlooking and loss of privacy, traffic and highway safety, noise, or the effect on the character of the area. Loss of a view or the effect on house prices don't count. There's usually a 21-day window from when neighbours are notified, and comments are published with the application.

After the decision

Most applications are decided by planning officers; larger or contested ones go to the council's planning committee, which meets in public. If permission is refused, the applicant can appeal to the Planning Inspectorate — but neighbours cannot appeal a permission that's been granted, which is why commenting before the decision matters.

Significant planning stories in Stafford — big developments, contested schemes, committee decisions — are covered in our local news. More practical local information in the Stafford local guide.