TOP TIPS

In the South Hams, the District Councillor for your development site may be an important person to consult if you want to get the right decision quickly.

Talking to neighbours about your plans, no matter how difficult this may be, is nearly always a good idea.

You will be surprised how much you can do with your property and land, with or without planning permission. If you're a householder have a look at this site – www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission

Do you think you have done something wrong, built something that someone is contesting or have you had a letter from the local Council Enforcement Officer? Developing without planning permission is unlikely to have broken any law or been illegal, but you might have done something without authorisation. Try not to get stressed and let someone else sort the problem out.

If you think building or doing something is a definite 'no', don't rely on speculation. The planning system is surprisingly flexible if you know how to use it. Talk to a Local Planning Officer, every Council offers free and simple advice most days of the week and they can dispel some myths.