PHASE 1: THE DEVELOPER’S TURN (WE ARE HERE 📍)
- Now – 18 Jan 2026: Pre-Application Consultation. The developer asks for views. They might tweak the plans slightly based on feedback, but usually, they are just ticking a box to say they “engaged” with the community.
- Deadline: Midnight, 18th January. (Send your emails to
hello@houriganplanning.combefore this date). https://burntwoodactiongroup.org/rake-hill-meg-lane-planning-information/objection-letter-to-developers/
PHASE 2: THE SUBMISSION (THE REAL CLOCK STARTS)
- Late Q1 2026 (Feb/March): Application Submitted. Hourigan Planning sends the final documents to Lichfield District Council.
- Validation: The Council checks the paperwork. Once “Validated,” the application appears on the Lichfield Council website with a Planning Reference Number (e.g., 26/00123/OUTM).
PHASE 3: THE PUBLIC VOTE (THE “STATUTORY” WINDOW)
- March/April 2026 (Est.): Official Council Consultation. ⚠️ CRITICAL MOMENT: This is the 21-day legal window where you must submit your “Formal Objection” to the Council. (Note: Your email to the developer in Phase 1 does NOT count as a formal objection to the Council. You must do it again here.)
PHASE 4: THE REVIEW
- Spring/Summer 2026: Officer Assessment. Planning Officers review all objections, consult highways/ecology experts, and negotiate with the developer.
- Screening Opinion: The Council decides if a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is needed (as discussed earlier).
PHASE 5: THE DECISION
- Late 2026:Planning Committee Meeting. Because this is a large development (225 homes), it will likely go to a vote by elected Councillors at a public meeting.
- We can speak at this meeting.
- Councillors vote to Approve or Refuse.
Burntwood Action Group 