The Planning Committee of Doncaster Council met on Tuesday 22 September 2026 to discuss the implementation of a new National Scheme of Delegation for planning functions and to review appeal decisions. The committee approved the adoption of a new Practice Note and amendments to the Planning Committee Protocol to align with the national scheme, and noted an appeal decision regarding a boundary wall.

Implementing the National Scheme of Delegation

The committee received a report detailing the UK Government's introduction of a new National Scheme of Delegation for planning functions, which is set to come into effect on 31 October 2026. This reform aims to provide greater clarity and consistency in planning decision-making, with planning committees focusing on applications of strategic importance, while routine and technical decisions are handled by officers.

The council has developed local arrangements to support the implementation of this scheme, including the appointment of nominated members and officers, a Planning Committee Triage and Referrals Practice Note, and amendments to the Planning Committee Protocol. These measures are designed to ensure clarity for applicants, members, and residents, minimise uncertainty, and keep committee resources focused on significant applications.

Following a discussion where councillors raised questions about how ward members would be informed, how planning applications would be signified on maps, the expected impact on workloads, scrutiny processes, the removal of the call-in process, and training for elected members, the committee voted to approve the recommendations.

Decision: The committee resolved to: approve and adopt the Planning Committee Triage and Referrals Practice Note; approve and adopt the amendments to the Planning Committee Protocol; note the introduction of the National Scheme of Delegation and the statutory requirement for its implementation by 31 October 2026; and delegate authority to the Service Director for Development and Traded Services to make any consequential amendments to the Officer Scheme of Delegation. The proposal was carried.

Appeal Decisions

The committee noted the outcome of a planning appeal concerning an increase in the height of a boundary wall at 19 Somerton Drive, Hatfield Woodhouse, Doncaster¹. The appeal was made against the council's refusal to grant planning permission for the retrospective application.

Decision: The appeal was dismissed by the Planning Inspectorate. The inspector found that the boundary wall, by virtue of its height and continuous length, was a significant and incongruous addition to the street scene, harming the character of the area. The inspector also concluded that the wall's height and placement at the vehicular access restricted visibility, posing a risk to highway safety, particularly for pedestrians. While the inspector found no harm to the living conditions of neighbouring occupiers, the overall conclusion was that the development conflicted with the Doncaster Local Plan² and the National Planning Policy Framework³.