Refusing an FOI request

See when we'll refuse an information request.

There are some circumstances where we might not give you the information you asked for.

This includes:

  • if we do not hold the information,
  • if the cost of providing the information is more than £450 - in this case we'll tell you in writing and give you the option of changing your request or paying for it,
  • if the request is vexatious or has been asked repeatedly by the same person or group,
  • if the information is already available to the public (even if there is a cost to see it) or
  • if the information requested falls under an exemption of the Freedom of Information Act or an exception to the Environmental Information Regulations 2004.

If we have to refuse your request, we will normally write to you to tell you why, and to give you any appeal rights that apply to the decision.