Further guidance about EIR requests

How to request information and in what format

  • Use clear language, if we are not sure what you want, we will have to ask you for clarification which may delay our final response.
  • Ask for specific information rather than using open-ended questions, ‘What?’ or ‘How much?’ are more likely to get the response you want rather than ‘Why?’.
  • Say how you would like to receive the information; electronically or as a hard copy. Otherwise, we will respond to you by the same method as your request.

When will I get a reply?

All EIR requests must be responded to in writing within 20 working days; unless there are exceptional circumstances where the information requested has been of a complex or voluminous nature. In cases where the response period has had to be extended by a further 20 working days, we will notify you of the delay and provide you with an estimated date of when the requested information is expected to be completed.

Will I always get the information I have asked for?

Regulation 12 of the Environmental Regulations does provide local authorities with exceptions to withhold information. These exceptions are not mandatory and are subject to a public interest test. The public interest test involves the council deciding whether it is in the interest of the council to disclose or withhold the environment information being requested.

Is there a charge for the information?

Under EIR we do not charge for access to the following:

  • Public registers
  • Environmental information lists
  • On-site inspections

However, for all other situations a charge may be applied but this is at our discretion and will be advised to you accordingly.

If my request is refused, or I am unhappy with the response, what can I do?

If you are unhappy with how your request has been handled, please contact our Data Protection Officer on [email protected] to request an internal review. Under EIR there is a legal requirement that internal reviews must be carried out as soon as possible and within 40 working days.

Please see our FOI and EIR complaints procedure for further information (Please note: This is separate from the standard complaints procedure).