When applying for simple planning permission in London, a range of documents and information must be submitted to the local planning authority (LPA) to ensure that your application is complete and can be properly assessed.
For a straightforward project, such as a small extension or a loft conversion, the following documentation is typically required:
1. Application Form
- Planning Application Form: You must complete the appropriate planning application form, which can be done online via the Planning Portal or obtained directly from your LPA. This form collects basic details about the applicant, the site, and the proposed development.
2. Location Plan
- Site Location Plan (1:1250 or 1:2500 scale): A map showing the location of the property in relation to its surroundings. The application site must be outlined in red, while any other land owned by the applicant nearby should be outlined in blue.
3. Block Plan
- Block Plan (1:200 or 1:500 scale): A more detailed plan showing the development within the context of the property boundary. This includes the position of the proposed development relative to existing structures, property boundaries, and nearby buildings.
4. Existing and Proposed Floor Plans
- Floor Plans (1:50 or 1:100 scale): Drawings showing the existing layout of the property and the proposed changes. This helps the LPA understand the extent and impact of the development.
5. Existing and Proposed Elevations
- Elevation Drawings (1:50 or 1:100 scale): Drawings of the existing and proposed views of the building from all sides. These show how the external appearance of the building will change.
6. Design and Access Statement
- Design and Access Statement: For some small projects, this document may not be required, but if the project is in a conservation area or involves a listed building, this statement explains the design approach and how the development will be accessible and meet planning policies.
7. Site Sections and Levels
- Sections and Levels Drawings (1:50 or 1:100 scale): If the development involves changes to the ground level or affects the height of the building, sections and levels drawings will be necessary to show these changes in detail.
8. Supporting Statements and Reports (if applicable)
- Heritage Statement: Required if the property is listed or in a conservation area, explaining how the development respects the historic character.
- Flood Risk Assessment: If the site is in a flood-prone area, a brief assessment might be required, outlining how the development will manage flood risks.
9. Ownership Certificate and Agricultural Land Declaration
- Certificate of Ownership: You must complete one of the ownership certificates (A, B, C, or D) to confirm who owns the land. If you are not the sole owner, you must notify other owners.
- Agricultural Land Declaration: Even for simple developments, this declaration must be completed to confirm whether the land has been used for agricultural purposes.
10. Planning Application Fee
- Application Fee: Pay the required fee when submitting your application. The fee varies depending on the type and scale of the project.
11. Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) Forms (if applicable)
- CIL Additional Information Form: For some developments, particularly new builds or significant enlargements, you may need to submit a CIL form, which helps the LPA determine if the development is liable for CIL charges.
12. Photographs (Optional but Helpful)
- Site Photographs: While not always required, including photographs of the site and existing buildings can help the LPA better understand the context of the proposed development.
Summary
For a simple planning permission application in London, you will typically need the following documentation:
- Application form
- Location plan
- Block plan
- Existing and proposed floor plans
- Existing and proposed elevations
- Ownership certificate
- Design and Access Statement (if required)
- Supporting reports (if required)
- Application fee
These documents ensure that the LPA has all the necessary information to assess the impact of your proposed development and make an informed decision. Always check with your local planning authority for any additional requirements specific to your project.
