Any planning application, needs to satisfy certain criteria, laid down in national policy and local plans. The application it'self needs to be "technically" correct in order to be registered by the Local Authority. They should consult the neigbouring properties, and invite them to inspect the application.
Quite apart from normal technical tests, the buildings should be in character with the surrounding properties, be sympathetic to their general surroundings, and not be "over development"
My advice ( I am a proprety developer

) is to meet with the planning officer dealing with the application, express your concerns, and seek his advice on the grounds which this can be refused. If he shares your concerns ( and they have to be valid planning grounds, not that you dont want these houses here ) he may suggest how you can best respond in writing during the consultation period. The officer will usually report to the planning committee many negetive responses have been received, and in some cases one representitive may be allowed to address the committee for a few minutes.
You could always employ a planning consultant, surveyor or architect to act on your behalf, but this of course will cost.
As for backhanders...... if only it was that simple
Oh, why dont you want this application approved?