Local Enforcement Plan 2024

4.1. Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council will investigate those complaints which it receives in writing as this helps us to maintain a clear audit trail so that there is no misunderstanding of what is being complained about and also prevents any malicious complaints being received.

4.2. The council has an online form which can be used to submit any planning enforcement queries. This is the easiest and quickest way to get a planning enforcement concern looked at. Alternatively email and letter will also be accepted where we have the required minimum level of information. Telephone calls will only be accepted where the unauthorised works relate to a listed building or protected tree.

4.3. We will not investigate any anonymous complaints, complaints which rely on an email address or those which do not include the necessary mandatory information.

4.4. The minimum level of information that must be provided includes:

• your name and address
• telephone number or e-mail address
• location of the building or site
• nature of the activity
• explain what problems the development or use is causing to you, for example noise, traffic, smells or overshadowing

Confidentiality

4.5. All planning enforcement matters are treated with a high degree of discretion and officers will not disclose any information which relates to the person(s) reporting the breach of planning control.

4.6. Where formal action is being taken and you have previously provided evidence to support an investigation you may be asked to give that evidence at a hearing, but before then you will be asked if you are prepared to do that. Most complaints are dealt with without the need for formal action.

4.7. Under the Freedom of Information Act 2000, if a request is made for the identity of the complainant or for information which may identify the complainant, we will not disclose your details. In some circumstances the information may be required to be disclosed by law. In such cases you will be contacted for your permission.