Planning Applications and Appeals: Master the Process and Appeals

Question 1

Which of the following is **not** a statutory ground for refusing planning permission in the United Kingdom?

Accepted Answer

Inadequate parking provision

Answer

Conflict with an existing development plan

Answer

Prejudice to the amenity of the neighborhood

Answer

Detrimental impact on the natural environment

Question 2

Which of the following is **not** a type of planning appeal in the United Kingdom?

Accepted Answer

Judicial review

Answer

Householder appeal

Answer

Non-determination appeal

Answer

Planning inquiry

Question 3

What is the legal test that the Planning Inspectorate must apply when considering a planning appeal in the United Kingdom?

Accepted Answer

The balance of public benefits and detriments

Answer

The economic viability of the development

Answer

The design and appearance of the development

Answer

The impact of the development on the local community

Question 4

What is the standard of proof required for a planning appeal in England?

Accepted Answer

The balance of probabilities.

Answer

Clear and convincing evidence.

Answer

On the preponderance of the evidence.

Answer

Beyond reasonable doubt.

Question 5

What is the primary difference between a planning application and a planning appeal?

Accepted Answer

An application is a request for permission, while an appeal is a challenge to a decision.

Answer

There is no difference between an application and an appeal.

Question 6

What is the main purpose of the pre-application stage of the planning process?

Accepted Answer

To enable the applicant to discuss their proposals with the local planning authority and stakeholders.

Answer

To determine whether the proposed development is likely to be approved.

Question 7

What is the name of the statutory document that sets out the government's national planning policies for England?

Accepted Answer

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)

Answer

National Development Framework

Answer

Local Development Plan

Question 8

What is the primary role of a planning enforcement officer?

Accepted Answer

To investigate alleged breaches of planning control and take appropriate enforcement action

Answer

To provide advice on planning applications

Answer

To represent the local planning authority at planning inquiries

Question 9

Who holds the authority to adjudicate planning appeals?

Accepted Answer

Planning Inspectorate

Answer

Secretary of State

Answer

Environment Agency

Answer

Local council

Question 10

A planning application is primarily intended to:

Accepted Answer

Obtain permission for proposed development

Answer

Secure funding for development

Answer

Contest a planning decision

Answer

Inform the local council of proposed development

Question 11

Which of the following is a recognized type of planning application?

Accepted Answer

Outline application

Answer

Judicial review

Answer

Compensation claim

Answer

Enforcement action

Question 12

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) serves the purpose of:

Accepted Answer

Providing guidance on government planning policies

Answer

Establishing the legal framework for planning applications

Answer

Determining the outcome of planning appeals

Question 13

During the determination of an appeal, the Planning Inspectorate will not consider:

Accepted Answer

Applicant's financial situation

Answer

Compliance of the proposed development with the local development plan

Answer

Environmental impact of the proposed development

Answer

Impact of the proposed development on the local community

Question 14

The distinction between a planning application and a planning appeal lies in:

Accepted Answer

Planning applications are submitted to the local authority, whereas planning appeals are directed to the Planning Inspectorate.

Answer

Planning applications are legally binding, unlike planning appeals.

Question 15

The main grounds for challenging a planning decision include:

Accepted Answer

Procedural irregularity, material error of fact, or legal error

Answer

Financial hardship, political bias, or public opinion

Answer

Environmental damage, traffic congestion, or noise pollution

Question 16

In planning appeals, expert witnesses play the role of:

Accepted Answer

Providing professional opinion and evidence on technical matters

Answer

Determining the outcome of the appeal

Answer

Advocating for the applicant or the local authority

Question 17

A developer submits a planning application for a large retail development in a rural area. The local council refuses permission, citing concerns about the impact on the character of the area. Which of the following is the most likely legal basis for this refusal?

Accepted Answer

Preservation of the rural character and appearance of the area

Answer

Mitigation of traffic congestion

Answer

Prevention of pollution

Question 18

A homeowner appeals a planning decision to refuse permission for a home extension. What is the primary body that will hear the appeal?

Accepted Answer

Planning Inspectorate

Answer

Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities

Answer

Local Council

Answer

High Court

Question 19

A local council is considering a planning application for a new wind farm. Which of the following is MOST likely to be a relevant factor in deciding whether to grant permission?

Accepted Answer

The potential impact on the landscape, visual amenity and ecological environment

Answer

The availability of alternative energy sources

Answer

The political views of the local council

Question 20

A developer seeks permission to build a new supermarket on a greenfield site. The local council refuses permission, citing the lack of sufficient infrastructure to support the development. What is the likely legal basis for this refusal?

Accepted Answer

The council's duty to ensure adequate infrastructure to support the proposed development

Answer

The need to protect greenfield sites

Answer

The impact on local businesses

Question 21

Which of the following is NOT a potential outcome of a planning appeal?

Accepted Answer

The appellant is awarded financial compensation for the delay caused by the appeal.

Answer

The original decision is upheld.

Answer

The original decision is overturned.

Question 22

A local council is considering a planning application for a new school. The council's planning officer recommends granting permission, but the council decides to refuse permission. Which of the following is most likely to be the reason for the refusal?

Accepted Answer

The council has a different opinion on the merits of the application than the planning officer

Answer

The council is not legally allowed to refuse permission if the planning officer recommends it.

Answer

The planning officer is legally bound to recommend granting permission.

Question 23

A homeowner seeks planning permission for a new garage. The local council grants permission subject to a condition that the garage must be built in a specific material. The homeowner wishes to appeal this condition. What is the most likely legal basis for the appeal?

Accepted Answer

The condition is unreasonable and does not relate to a relevant planning consideration.

Answer

The condition is discriminatory against the homeowner.

Answer

The council did not properly consult with the homeowner before imposing the condition.