Which process involves councils making specific decisions on planning applications?

The process that involves councils making specific decisions on planning applications is development control. This is a crucial aspect of local government operations, as it allows councils to assess planning applications based on local policies, regulations, and guidelines. Development control encompasses evaluating proposed developments to ensure they align with community goals, environmental considerations, and zoning laws. This process involves scrutiny by local planning authorities, which can lead to approvals, rejections, or requests for modifications according to established criteria.

While planning permission is a related concept that involves the authorization given to proceed with a particular development, development control specifically refers to the decision-making process itself. It is the practical application of planning legislation and policies on individual cases, including assessing the implications of each application on the community and environment. Other processes like appeals and strategic planning relate to different functions within the planning framework, such as contesting decisions or developing a long-term vision, rather than the direct consideration and determination of specific planning applications.