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FOI & planning applications

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0 votes
I am trying to find out if a small business is looking to get planning permission for a particular property. I know that when applications are submitted they are made public but I am trying to find out ASAP.

I have asked the borough council if preapplication advice has been given to anyone in relation to the property but they are telling me that is confidential, is this right?

I can understand that disclosure of names and details might be confidential but I would of thought whether or not anyone has sought preapplication advice wouldn't be?
Thanks.
by (420 points)

2 Answers

0 votes
SFAIK you're out of luck there.
by (33.6k points)
What is SFAIK?
by (1.2k points)
Sorry, these abbreviations don't work for everyone! SFAIK = so far as I know.
by (33.6k points)
0 votes
I suggest that you make a formal freedom of information request. The council will have to give you a reason for refusing. Then you are in a position to make a challenge (if you want to). Good guidance on this topic from the ICO at https://ico.org.uk/for-organisations/guide-to-freedom-of-information/refusing-a-request/
by (1.7k points)

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