Why it matters: The National Planning Policy Framework requires councils to consider publishing enforcement plans to maintain public confidence in the planning system. Without clear guidelines, inconsistent enforcement could undermine trust and allow harmful breaches to continue unchecked.
What's new: On 8 July, Ipswich Borough Council's Executive voted to recommend the Local Planning Enforcement Plan for adoption by Full Council. The document establishes service standards, investigation timescales and priority criteria for enforcement cases across the borough.
The plan introduces a structured harm assessment system that scores potential breaches on factors including safety risks, environmental damage and impact on heritage assets. Cases scoring above six points may be pursued for resolution, whilst those scoring five or below may be closed due to insufficient harm.
The details: The policy sets clear timescales for investigating complaints:
Priority 1 cases (serious safety threats): Immediate action
Priority 2 cases (substantial unauthorised building work): Three working days
Priority 3 cases (problems requiring limited modification): Five working days
Priority 4 cases (minor breaches): 10 working days
Priority 5 cases (unauthorised advertisements): 20 working days
All complaints will be acknowledged within three working days, with most enquiries resolved within six months unless formal enforcement notices are required.
For context: Taking planning enforcement action is discretionary, but councils have a duty to investigate breaches of planning control. The plan emphasises negotiation over formal action, noting "most breaches are resolved through negotiation and discussion."
Portfolio holder Councillor Carole Jones said the plan would supplement existing planning policies whilst being specific to enforcement decisions relevant to Ipswich.
What's next: Officers propose reviewing the harm assessment system 12 months after adoption to assess its effectiveness.
The bottom line: The enforcement plan aims to provide residents with clear expectations about how planning breaches will be investigated whilst ensuring council resources are used proportionately to address the most serious cases first.
