Top ways to get your planning application validated.

Getting your planning application validated is a crucial step in the process of obtaining approval for a construction or development project. Validation ensures that your application meets the necessary requirements and can be considered by the planning authority. While specific validation requirements may vary by location and jurisdiction, here are the top five ways to increase the chances of your planning application being validated:

1. Consult with Local Planning Authority (LPA):

Contact your local planning authority early in the process to discuss your proposal and confirm the specific validation requirements for your area. Each LPA may have slightly different requirements but generally we advocate pre-application engagement with the LPA .

2. Complete Application Forms Accurately:

Ensure that you fill out all required application forms accurately and completely. Check for any specific forms or documents required by your LPA, such as Design and Access Statements, Heritage Impact Assessments, CIL forms and Biodiversity Checklists.

3. Submit the Required Documents:

Compile all necessary supporting documents, plans, drawings, and reports as per the LPA's requirements. This includes site plans, elevation drawings, floor plans all to a recognised scale, drainage assessments, ecological surveys, and more. Make sure all documents are properly formatted and clearly labeled and are consistent in how they describe the proposals.

4. Pay the Application Fee:

Pay the required application fee promptly. The fee may vary depending on the type and scale of your development. .

Additionally, consider the following tips to improve the validation process:

- Be responsive to requests for additional information or revisions from the LPA. Timely communication and cooperation can expedite the validation process.

- Seek professional advice, consider hiring Contour Planning - we have years of experience in dealing with planning applications and can help you prepare and submit a comprehensive application which meets the validation requirements.

- Engage with neighbours and the local community early, for larger schemes, to address potential concerns and gather support for your proposal. This can have a positive impact on the application process.

Remember that validation is the initial step, and your application will still need to go through the assessment and decision-making process. Being well-prepared and meeting validation requirements will help ensure that the statutory consultees have all the necessary information to provide a prompt response which in turn will enable a quicker determination.