The planning application

It's time to make your views known

How to write your representation

Here are some suggestions about how to write a response to the planning application. Your representation can follow a set flow of information as below. This is not required for it to be considered an official response but it is helpful. We also have a template you can use.

You can see examples of responses on the Mole Valley District Council Planning Portal at the bottom of the 'Documents' tab under 'Letters>OBJC Letter of representation'. 

1. Brief introduction
Make it clear if you are only commenting or lodging a formal objection eg To whom it may concern, I am writing to object to/I am writing regarding/I would like to make a comment on. If you want your response to be registered as an objection, it is important to be explicit using 'object' or 'oppose' or similar words. 

Then include the planning number and the site address of the application eg MO/2025/02695 which pertains to LAND AT BULL HILL AND SWAN SHOPPING CENTRE LEATHERHEAD.

2. State your interest/relation to the site
Say if you use the park frequently or are nearby resident eg I live opposite the site of the proposed development/I use the site frequently on my way to wor/I have lived in Leatherhead for 10+ years/I use the park everyday to walk my dog.

3. Reasons for comment/objection
Give your reasons for objection/comment. It is important that the basis of the response contains material concerns and not simply opinion. As an example, loss of view or the potential negative effect on the value of property are not considered to be material considerations.

Some material considerations include (but are not limited to):

• Loss of privacy

• Parking issues

• Highway safety

• Traffic concerns

• Noise

• Effect on listed building and conservation area

• Building height 

• Layout and density of building

• Design, appearance and materials

• Accessibility

• Natural conservation

4. Include your name and address

5. (Optional) Other parties/request to speak
You could also refer to other bodies and groups that hold similar views to you. Additionally, if you wish, you can request to speak to councillors at the Development Control Committee meeting to express your views to them directly. If you wish to do this, you will need to ask them to let you know the date of the meeting. Note, the decision to let anyone speak and, if granted, the length of time allotted is made by the committee chair.

See objection letter template for more guidance >