Freedom of information (FOI) request is a request for recorded information the council holds. Environmental information regulation (EIR) requests are like FOIs but for environmental information - we call them FOIs here for ease.

FOIs can be in the middle of letters/emails and don't have to say 'freedom of information' to be a FOI request. Not every request is a formal FOI - it can be dealt with quickly and easily as 'business as usual' (BAU) answer it informally.

Examples of FOI/EIR

• Can I have all the food hygiene reports for Tasty Café?
• I want the pre-app advice and all emails about it for 1 Small Street

BAUs

• Can I have a copy of the complaints process and policies?
• I want to see the planning application for 4 Big Street

If in doubt send to [email protected] and we will filter out the BAUs.

FOIs have tight deadlines and are overseen by Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) who can take enforcement action. A FOI is received by Camden even if the FOI team aren’t given it. If you can provide all the information requested quickly and easily do so as a business as usual (BAU) request.

If you can’t deal as a BAU or they’ve specifically asked for a FOI then send to [email protected] straight away