More people are tempted to use AI in making objections to planning applications, and in support of schemes. This is being recognised by professional planners, who can spot common errors that AI throws up. AI frequently misquotes policies, case law, draws wrong conclusions - it is easily spotted by a competent local authority planner, or at appeal by an experienced Inspector. The planning profession knows this, as this article shows. Our books shows how to write a proper submission that stands out from the AI errors.

An interesting story of residents in an area of London concerned about too much interference by the planning department into their lives - which appears led by other residents concerned the planners are not taking enough interest in their area.

That was the review left for our 'How to Object' book on Amazon. The reviewed says it helped them resist a neighbour's insensitive proposals to the house. We're always pleased to hear great reviews for the book, which has been an Amazon bestseller

We recently noticed this on a Council's website for a planning application: the number of documents uploaded, ready for the public to comment on the case. Too many? If you need some help in framing an objection, then check out our books.

The Government is announcing changes to the planning system that will see the right for local communities to decide and vote for developments in their area, including extensions. But for now, no such system: if you want help in appealing against a refusal or objecting to development, our books can help.

We all remember the fame of Jackie Weaver with the Handforth Parish Council online planning meeting during lockdown. Online meetings became normal and have increased participation, but will they continue? Some Councils are removing them, others keen to carry on: but as this article shows, it comes at a cost to provide the technology.

The Government has announced a trial of new digital techniques to involve the public in planning. This will be more interactive maps, integrated with Local Plan production, and notification of planning applications - doing away with 'notices on lampposts' that they feel are too old fashioned.

A recent court case in Cambridgeshire has clarified some aspects of public consultation on development. A Highways Authority had objected to a development scheme on the grounds of highway safety. A change to the scheme led to the Authority raising no objection, but due to economic benefit. That was found to be unlawful - the lesson is that consultees must stick to their remit.

An interesting user-generated map of grass root environmental campaigns has been set up, using Google Maps to track where pressure groups are involved in development proposals. It can be seen via this link