Colchester City Council is proud to announce that its Planning Enforcement Team has been recognised among the top ten in England for the number of enforcement notices issued in 2024/25, according to Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) data. Colchester placed seventh nationally, issuing 71 notices across the year, among 337 local planning authorities.
This result reflects the council’s commitment to proactively investigating planning breaches and applying planning rules consistently to remedy breaches where they occur and harm the amenity and environment of the city. It also demonstrates the effectiveness and efficiency of a compact, specialist team serving a midsized city. Despite having just three officers, Colchester’s performance sits alongside – and in several instances ahead of – outcomes recorded by larger metropolitan and unitary authorities and indeed the majority of other councils in England. The team’s focus on evidence-led investigation, clear case prioritisation and appropriate use of powers has contributed to this outstanding performance.
Cllr Andrea Luxford Vaughan, Portfolio Holder for Planning and Sustainability, said: “Enforcement is a routine but essential part of the planning system. Most people follow the rules; where they don’t, we take appropriate action in line with national guidance and local policy. This result shows our team is applying the rules consistently and in the public interest, and I want to thank them for their energetic professionalism.
“Being in the national top ten is not about volume for its own sake. It reflects careful, proportionate work to uphold the rules so that good developments proceed and harmful breaches are addressed. This grows confidence in our planning system for the city. I’m grateful to residents and responsible developers who engage with us early – together we maintain high standards and respect in the system.”
Colchester’s approach prioritises early engagement and resolution wherever possible, with formal action used only when necessary. Effective enforcement helps to maintain a level playing field for responsible applicants and developers, upholds agreed conditions and standards, and supports confidence in the planning process for residents and businesses alike.
Residents who suspect development is taking place without permission, or that planning conditions are being breached, can contact the council’s Planning Enforcement team here. Every report is assessed, and formal action is taken where appropriate.