Privacy Policy
How we collect, use and protect your personal information
Introduction
This Privacy Policy explains how skplanning.org ("we", "us", or "our") collects, uses, and protects information when you use our website to search and view planning applications in Stockport, Greater Manchester.
We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring transparency about how we handle your personal information.
Information We Collect
Automatically Collected Information
When you visit our website, we automatically collect certain technical information:
- Server Logs: IP addresses, browser type and version, operating system, referring website, pages accessed, and timestamps
- Cookies and Similar Technologies: Small files stored on your device to enhance website functionality and user experience
- Usage Analytics: Information about how you interact with our website, including search terms, pages viewed, and time spent on the site
Information You Provide
- Search Queries: Planning application searches and filters you apply
- Contact Information: If you contact us through any contact forms or email addresses provided on the site
- Feedback: Any feedback, comments, or suggestions you submit to us
How We Use Your Information
We use the collected information for the following purposes:
- Service Provision: To provide access to planning application data and search functionality
- Website Improvement: To analyze usage patterns and improve our website's performance and user experience
- Technical Maintenance: To maintain, troubleshoot, and secure our website
- Communication: To respond to your inquiries, feedback, or support requests
- Legal Compliance: To comply with applicable laws and regulations
Planning Application Data
Public Information: The planning application data displayed on our website is obtained from public sources, primarily Stockport Council's planning database. This information is already in the public domain and includes:
- Application reference numbers and addresses
- Applicant and agent details (as submitted to the council). Note we do not display any names of applicants or agents.
- Application descriptions and documents
- Decision dates and outcomes
- Comments from the public and consultees
Data Sources: We aggregate and display planning application data from official public sources. We do not alter or add personal information to this data beyond what is already publicly available.
Legal Basis for Processing
Under UK data protection law, our legal bases for processing personal information include:
- Legitimate Interests: For website analytics, security, and improvement of our services
- Consent: When you voluntarily provide information through contact forms
- Legal Obligation: When required to comply with applicable laws
- Public Task: For providing access to public planning information
Data Sharing and Disclosure
We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties. We may share information in the following circumstances:
- Service Providers: With trusted third-party service providers who help us operate our website (e.g., hosting providers, analytics services)
- Legal Requirements: When required by law, court order, or government authority
- Website Security: To protect against fraud, abuse, or security threats
Cookies and Tracking Technologies
We use cookies and similar technologies to:
- Remember your preferences and settings
- Analyze website traffic and usage patterns
- Ensure website security and functionality
You can control cookies through your browser settings. However, disabling cookies may affect some website functionality.
Data Retention
We retain personal information only as long as necessary for the purposes outlined in this policy:
- Server logs: Typically retained for up to 12 months
- Analytics data: Aggregated and anonymized data may be retained longer for statistical purposes
- Contact inquiries: Retained as long as necessary to respond to your inquiry and for a reasonable period thereafter
Planning application data is retained and updated based on the availability from public sources.
Your Rights
Under UK data protection law, you have the following rights regarding your personal information:
- Access: Request a copy of the personal information we hold about you
- Rectification: Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete information
- Erasure: Request deletion of your personal information (subject to legal limitations)
- Restriction: Request limitation of processing in certain circumstances
- Portability: Request transfer of your personal information in a structured format
- Objection: Object to processing based on legitimate interests
To exercise these rights, please contact us using the information provided below.
Data Security
We implement appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect your personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. However, no internet transmission is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.
Third-Party Links
Our website may contain links to third-party websites, including Stockport Council's official planning portal. This Privacy Policy does not apply to those websites. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of any third-party sites you visit.
Children's Privacy
Our website is not intended for children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13.
International Data Transfers
Your personal information is primarily processed within the United Kingdom. If we transfer information internationally, we ensure appropriate safeguards are in place.
Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify users of any material changes by posting the updated policy on our website with a new "Last Updated" date.
Contact Information
If you have any questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us:
Email: admin@skplanning.org
For data protection matters specifically, you can also contact the UK's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) at ico.org.uk.
This privacy policy is designed to comply with UK data protection laws, including the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018.