Shops and other retail uses, as described in the current use classes order.

Financial or professional premises open to members of the public.

Restaurants, take aways and licensed premises.

Any body enjoying rights of compulsory purchase - for example, a local planning authority.

The planning system contains specific controls for all types of outdoor advertisements from shop-fronts to Piccadilly Circus. Although many advertisements enjoy deemed consent, careful attention must be paid to the proposed size and location.

Also known as "social housing". Most local planning authorities require larger residential developments to include a percentage of housing which is permanently accessible to the local market through a registered housing association. Alternatively, the local planning authority may prefer the payment of a commuted sum.

Pleasant or advantageous features enjoyed by a property which may or may not be affected by development proposals. Conversely, some developments might claim to generate amenity.

Planning permission for a particular use includes permission for related activities if they are proportional to the main use - for example a staff restaurant in an office development.

Land designated by the Countryside Commission which is subject to additional planning controls.

An appeal may be made to the First Secretary of State against the refusal or non-determination of a planning application. Appeals are dealt with by written representations, hearing or public inquiry. The parties can suggest their preferred mode but the final decision is made by the planning inspectorate. Written representations are quicker and cheaper but offer no opportunity to test evidence by cross-examination. Hearings are less formal and suitable for cases not arousing public interest. Public inquiries are formal tribunals and allow all matters to be fully examined. The Planning and Compulsory Purchase Bill, when enacted, will reduce the period in which one may appeal from 6 months to 3 months from the date of the refusal.

The planning system recognises the importance of our archaeological heritage. Conditions may require site investigations. Current government policy recommends preservation in situ where possible.

The removal of permitted development rights by the issue of a direction under the GDPO, for example the removal in a conservation area, of the usual rights to alter houses.

A direction issued by the First Secretary of State under the GDPO delaying or restricting the grant of planning permission by a local planning authority. Often used to give the Secretary of State time to consider whether or not to call-in a planning application.