Development enquiry centre

Call into or contact the development enquiry centre for information and advice on:

• the planning system and making a planning application;
• current and previously decided planning applications;
• the Unitary Development Plan and other policies;
• building regulations;
• council land and buildings currently for sale or rent;
• pay application fees by debit or credit card.

Leonardo Building, 2 Rossington Street, Leeds, LS2 8HD
Tel  0113 222 4409 (minicom 0113 247 4305)
Fax 0113 247 4117
dec@leeds.gov.uk 
Open Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:00, except Wednesdays 10:00 - 17:00.

The centre has computer terminals where you can view basic details on all planning applications made since 1974, and a microfilm reader to view those made prior to that. You can also see details of the Unitary Development Plan and other planning policies, listed buildings and conservation areas. There is a wide range of information about the development process and current developments in Leeds. We can supply you with Ordnance Survey extracts of base plans to help you if you are making a planning application (there is a charge for this). We also hold details of council land and buildings currently for sale or rent, along with tender documents.

We tend to be busier on Mondays and Wednesdays, and at all lunchtimes, so you should try to avoid these times if you can.  We try to answer queries on the spot but this is not always possible. We may have to inspect a property, check its history or seek more specific advice.  You can make an appointment, however please remember that we are not always able to answer your question in full immediately.

We recognise the need to consult with users of our services. How the Development Enquiry Centre do this is detailed in our Consultation Strategy. To view the strategy please use the link at the side of the page.

Frequently asked questions

Q. How can I check on the progress of an application?
You can check the progress of an application via Public Access.  Alternatively you can call us on 0113 2478000and we can provide you with an update.

Q. I'm thinking of building a conservatory/extension/garage, do I need planning permission?  
We can provide you with confirmation if you complete a permitted development enquiry form.  These are available to download from this page.  Alternatively, we can post them to you or you can collect them from this office in the city centre.  We aim to provide you with a response within ten working days. You can also use the interactive guide on the Planning Portal

Q. Where do I get planning application forms?
All relevant application forms and guidance are available on this website - follow the links from this page. Forms are also available from the enquiry centre, or we can post, fax or e-mail them to you.

Q. Where can I view details of current planning applications?
The enquiry centre holds copies of all planning applications. We aim to make files available to you on the same day. Some files are retrieved from off site and we may need up to 72 hours to make them available to you. You can also follow the link to the planning applications and decisions list to see all applications and decisions made in the last year. Your local library also holds copies of all applications in the local area that have not yet had a decision. Please see our Service Standards leaflet attached.

Q. If I comment on a planning application will it be treated confidentially?
No. However, if you suspect that someone is developing without planning permission, you may ask us to investigate and your request will be treated confidentially. Please see the leaflet above 'What can I do if Planning rules are broken'

Q. Where can I get more information about the planning system?
The 'Planning Portal' is a national online 'onestop' resource for planning information in England and Wales. Follow the weblink to visit the site and find out almost anything you need to know about planning and development control.

Q. How can I find out who owns a particular piece of land or building?
The enquiry centre can put you in touch with our land records team who will tell you whether the council owns it. If it doesn't, you can then contact the Land Registry (follow the weblink) who may be able to help identify the owner, for a small fee.

The Land Registry office for the Leeds area is :
Land Registry, Nottingham (West) Office
Chalfont Drive
Nottingham
NG8 3RN
DX No: 10298 Nottingham (3)

Tel: 0115 935 1166
Fax: 0115 935 0038
GTN: 6208

Our service standards
We aim to give you an answer to your question as accurately and promptly as possible. All planning applications that have been submitted in the last 5 weeks are available to view at the enquiry centre. If you wish to view an older application or a decision, we try to make it available within two working days. We will respond to written enquiries (e-mail, fax or letter) within 10 working days.

Resolved Contacts: Percentage resolved at first point of contact

Map below shows the location of the Development Enquiry Centre.

Contacts