Guidance on Objecting to Planning Applications
If you’re objecting to a planning application in Shipston-on-Stour, referencing the Core Strategy from Stratford-on-Avon District Council is a key part of building a strong case. Here’s a guide on how to structure your objection and which Core Strategy policies may be relevant.
How to Object to a Planning Application (Using the Core Strategy)
1. Know the Core Strategy
Stratford-on-Avon Core Strategy is the statutory development plan, setting out policies for development across the district, including Shipston-on-Stour. Your objection should reference specific policies in the Core Strategy that the application conflicts with.
Common Core Strategy Policies You Might Reference
- Policy CS.1 – Sustainable Development
All development should be sustainable in terms of location, scale, and impact on the environment.
If the application is for large or inappropriate development, argue that:
It’s not sustainably located (e.g. remote from town services or public transport).
It encourages car use.
It negatively impacts climate change goals. - Policy CS.15 – Distribution of Development
Focuses development in main towns and large villages.
If the development is outside the town boundary or in open countryside, you can argue:
The location is not in line with the development hierarchy.
Shipston has already taken a significant share of development, and more will unbalance infrastructure and services. - Policy CS.16 – Housing Development
Seeks to manage housing growth in line with local needs and infrastructure capacity.
Use this if:
The proposal exceeds Shipston’s housing targets.
There is no proven local housing need.
Infrastructure (schools, health, roads) is already under pressure. - Policy CS.5 – Landscape
Seeks to protect and enhance the character of the landscape.
Object if:
The development affects Cotswolds AONB, rural views, or local character.
It will urbanise open countryside or prominent landscape areas. - Policy CS.6 – Natural Environment
Protects biodiversity and habitats.
Argue if:
The site supports protected species or priority habitats.
There is inadequate ecological assessment. - Policy CS.9 – Design and Distinctiveness
Requires development to respect the character and appearance of the area.
Use this if:
The design is out of keeping with the area.
It causes overdevelopment, poor layout, or loss of local identity. - Policy AS.6 – Shipston-on-Stour Area Strategy
This is specifically about Shipston.
You should read this policy in detail. It outlines:
Shipston’s role as a Main Rural Centre.
Limits on further large-scale development.
Need to protect the town’s character, infrastructure, and environment.
Strong objection grounds include:
The development does not align with the local vision for Shipston.
It causes strain on local facilities or harms town identity. - Unique Planning Reference Number: 25/01843/OUT – Land South of Darlingscote Road Shipston – See Planning Application »
- Unique Planning Reference Number: 25/01863/OUT – Land Off Shoulderway Lane Shipston-on-Stour – See Planning Application »
- Unique Planning Reference Number: 24/00303/OUT – Land at Hansen Farm Webb Road Shipston-on-Stour – See Planning Application »
- Unique Planning Reference Number: 25/01521/OUT – Land North Of Darlingscote Road Shipston – See Planning Application »
- Unique Planning Reference Number: 25/01810/OUT – Land North of Tilemans Lane Shipston – See Planning Application »
- Land off Hanson Avenue Shipston – Outline Planning Application Coming Soon »
Tips for Writing Your Objection
Be specific: Quote policies by number (e.g., “Policy CS.15”).
Stick to planning grounds: Avoid emotional or personal arguments.
Support with evidence: Photos, traffic stats, ecological reports, etc.
Where to Submit Your Objection
You can object by:
Online: On the Stratford-on-Avon District Council planning portal.
Email or letter to the Planning Department. – planning.applications@stratford-dc.gov.uk
The Planning Admin team
Elizabeth House
Church Street
Stratford-upon-Avon
Warwickshire
CV37 6HX