How you can object
Once the application has been submitted, you can register your objection in a number of ways (please do not send your letter in yet as it will not be taken into account):
1) Click here to access the North Yorkshire Council planning portal and enter the planning reference (to be provided once known) into the search bar. This will take you to the application.
From here you will need to click on comments, then either register or login and make a comment (this will be your objection “letter”).
2) Write an email outlining your objection points and send it to:
planenquiries.ric@northyorks.gov.uk
3) Send a letter of objection containing your objection to:
Planning Services, North Yorkshire Council, County Hall, Racecourse Lane, Northallerton. DL7 8AD
In all cases,you should ensure you include the planning application reference number, your name and postal address.
How to write objection letters
1) Your objection can be long or short – it doesn’t have to be complicated or technical, it just needs to contain the items you feel strongly about.
2) You can object to matters such as how you feel any development will negatively impact on the lakes, nature, the village, the surrounding area, roads, traffic congestion and of course how it will make a difference to you as an individual. Try to make a specific point rather than just saying you don’t like it – say why.
3) You can cover impacts during the build phase as well as the once built stage
4) Remember, the aim is to submit as many objection letters as possible so if there are two or three of you in a household then please send one each (with different wording if you can)
5) For more detailed guidance about what to include in an objection letter see below.
Why are objection letters important?
What exactly is a formal objection?
It is a “letter” setting out the fact that you object to the application, together with the reasons why you are objecting. You can send a letter, an email, or submit on the North Yorkshire Planning Portal. We will explain below how to structure your objection and how to submit it.
Whichever method you choose, your objection will need to have some key details, as follows.
The unique planning application reference number assigned by the Planning Department to the application. We will provide this here once an application has been submitted.
You will also need to provide your full name and postal address. More than one person from the same household can object, and we would encourage as many objections from each household as possible.
What should I include in my objection?
impact on the amenity of the Lakes.
traffic generation, highway safety, road access
increased noise and disturbance to wildlife and the peaceful atmosphere
hazardous materials/ground contamination
loss of trees and habitat
layout and density of buildings
design, appearance and materials of the buildings
impact on the landscape.
local, strategic, regional and national planning policies
increased pressure on local services
impact on disabled access
impact on nature conservation
impact on biodiversity
contravention of the legal agreement (Section 106 agreement, see separate FAQ
the need for accessible spaces for community health and wellbeing
Clearly outline your reasons for objecting, referencing specific local development plan policies where possible. (See separate FAQ)
How should I structure my objection?
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to object to the proposed Scorton Lakes development (reference number XXXXXX). My objection is on the following grounds.
Concentrate on valid planning concerns (material considerations, see above).
Support your objections with evidence wherever possible. This can include your own experiences, data, and expert opinions, that demonstrate the potential negative effects of the proposed development.
Clearly outline your main points, linking them to the relevant planning policy number if known, and supporting them with evidence where you can.
To conclude, you could add something along the following lines.
“For the reasons outlined above, I request refusal of this application”.
Final tips: keep your tone respectful, stick to relevant planning considerations, be concise, submit before the deadline, and keep a copy of your objection.
Where should I send or post my objection?
You can send a letter of objection to North Yorkshire Council using the postal service, addressing it to Planning Services, North Yorkshire Council, County Hall, Racecourse Lane, Northallerton, DL7 8AD
You can email your objection to this email address: PlanEnquiries.ric@northyorks.gov.uk
You can submit your objection via the NYC Planning Portal: https://planning.richmondshire.gov.uk/online-applications/search.do?action=simple&searchType=Application
In all cases, it is essential that you include the planning application reference number, your name, and postal address, otherwise your objection will be ignored. More than one person from the same household can object, and we would encourage as many objections from each household as possible.
Others things you can do to help
You can support SSL activities in a number of ways:
1) Become a member of Save Scorton Lakes (SSL) – click here to complete the membership form (the form is quick to complete and tells you what’s involved in being a member). Alternatively, Scorton Post Office has paper copies of our membership form, which can be completed and returned to them for us to collect.
2) Make a donation on our GoFundMe page – click here – or on the Donate button below. Alternatively you could make a bank transfer – please email us for our bank details.
Any contributions will help with legal advice, engagement of expert consultants, printing etc.
3) Spread the word – share this campaign with your family, friends and colleagues and ask them to also formally object. Every objection letter counts so the more the better eg. more than one letter per household is accepted.
4) If you have skills in fundraising, social media, legal and some time to help, please make contact – your Lakes Needs You!!
5) Keep up to speed with what is happening by visiting our Scorton Lakes Nature Reserve Facebook page – see the link in the page footer.
6) If you want to be more involved with the campaign then join our private Facebook group called Friends of Scorton Lakes. Click here for access – you’ll need to answer two questions to be accepted.
7) We also have an active WhatsApp group so email info@scortonlakes.org with your name and mobile number to become a member.