For a more visual search, Preston City Council also runs an interactive map covering planning applications from 2011 onwards, it can be found here: https://www.preston.gov.uk/planningpublicmapsUseful if you want to see everything submitted in a particular street or area rather than searching one address at a time.
The council publishes a weekly list of newly received and newly decided applications. This is the fastest way to spot a new application near you before the standard 21-day consultation period runs out.
Once you’ve found the application, you can submit a comment or objection directly through the portal while it’s still open for consultation. Effective objections focus on genuine “material planning considerations” such as loss of light, overlooking, highway safety, or conflict with local plan policy, rather than personal or private matters, which planning officers can’t take into account.
Buying a property? Check whether recent extensions or alterations had permission, and whether any nearby development could affect your enjoyment of the property. Planning your own project? Search similar recent applications nearby to see what Preston City Council has and hasn’t approved. Concerned about a neighbouring development? Act within the consultation window.
How do I find out if my extension had planning permission?
Search your address on the planning portal. If nothing shows up, the work may have been carried out under permitted development rights, or in rare cases without the required consent.
How long do I have to comment on a planning application?
Typically 21 days from when it’s first advertised or neighbours are notified, though this can vary.
Can I object anonymously?
No, comments become part of the public record and are not anonymous, though your contact details are not published.
Searching the register tells you what’s happened. If you need help preparing, submitting, or objecting to an application, Wignalls’ planning consultants work with Preston City Council every week.
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