The evaluation of a planning application often involves a complex and multifaceted process. Public members hold numerous viewpoints on such matters, and while some may be entirely rational, not all can be legally factored into the final decision.

"Material planning considerations" play a critical role in the planning application evaluation. These are valid objections that can significantly impact the decision to approve or reject a planning proposal. They encompass a variety of aspects, including:

1. Diminished sunlight or an overshadowing effect

2. Invasion of privacy or overlooking

3. Visual amenity impacts (excluding private view loss)

4. Adequacy of parking, loading, and turning facilities

5. Highway safety implications

6. Traffic generation

7. Noise and disturbance due to utilization

8. The presence of hazardous materials

9. Unpleasant smells

10. Deforestation

11. Impacts on heritage-listed buildings and conservation areas

12. Building layout and density

13. Building design, appearance, and materials used

14. Landscaping strategies

15. Road access

16. Local, strategic, regional, and national planning policies

17. Government directives, orders, and statutory instruments

18. Accessibility for disabled individuals

19. Potential cost awards against the Council in public inquiries

20. Proposals outlined in the Development Plan

21. Conservation of nature

22. Archaeological concerns

23. Incorporation of solar panels

24. Crime fears, provided there's evidence indicating a real threat

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Yet, there are multiple factors that the Council cannot legally consider when assessing planning applications. These might include:

1. Depreciation of property value

2. Business competition

3. Loss of private view

4. Boundary disputes, including foundation encroachment5. Private agreements or covenants

6. The applicant's previous conduct or history

7. The motives behind the application

8. Potential profits from the approved application

9. Private rights to light or access

10. Property damage

11. Disruption during the construction phase

12. Completed work

13. Fence alignments

14. Trade loss or competitors

15. Age, health, status, and background of the objector

16. The objector's work schedule

17. Work completion timeframe

18. Private drainage system capacity

19. Building or structural techniques

20. Alcohol or gaming licenses

21. Matters under other legislation's purview

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In assessing a planning application, it's also crucial for the Council to envision the potential outcomes in the absence of an application. Let's take the instance of a project intending to convert an office building into homes. In this case, community concerns may arise regarding a surge in traffic. However, the Council's consideration must be limited to the traffic increment that surpasses what the fully occupied office building would have ordinarily caused.