How To Apply For Outline Planning Permission: A Comprehensive Guide

Before making a full planning application, outline planning permission allows you to establish whether your proposed development is acceptable in principle on a particular site, helping you to avoid wasting time and money on detailed plans for a scheme that may not be approved.

An outline planning application seeks approval only for the main aspects of the development including scale, layout, and access. More detailed matters such as the exact materials to be used or the precise appearance of the buildings will be considered at a later stage through a full planning application.

Applying for outline planning permission involves submitting various documents to your local planning authority. These include:

• A completed application form
• A design and access statement
• Plans of the proposed development
• A planning application fee

Once you have submitted your application, the local planning authority will assess it and make a decision within a specified timeframe. If your application is approved, you will be granted outline planning permission, which will give you the go-ahead to submit a full planning application.

1. Application Form

An accurate and comprehensive application form is the cornerstone of a successful outline planning permission application. It serves as the primary document through which you present your development proposal to the local planning authority.

• Understanding Form Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of the application form, including the level of detail required for each section and any supporting documentation that may be necessary.
• Clear and Concise Information: Provide clear and concise information throughout the form, ensuring that all relevant details are included without any unnecessary or ambiguous language.
• Accuracy and Consistency: Ensure that the information provided in the application form is accurate and consistent with the supporting documents submitted, such as plans and design statements.
• Professional Presentation: Present your application form in a professional and organized manner, paying attention to clarity, layout, and overall presentation.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can significantly increase the chances of your outline planning permission application being processed efficiently and without delays due to incomplete or inaccurate information.

2. Design and Access Statement

The Design and Access Statement is a crucial part of an outline planning permission application as it provides a detailed description of the design principles and how the development will integrate with the surrounding area. It is an opportunity to demonstrate the quality of your proposal and how it will enhance the local environment.

• Design Principles: Outline the design principles that have informed the development proposal, including architectural style, materials, and landscaping. Explain how these principles contribute to the overall quality and character of the development.
• Contextual Considerations: Describe how the development has been designed to respect and enhance the surrounding area. Consider the scale, massing, and orientation of the buildings, as well as the impact on views and natural features.
• Public Realm: Explain how the development will contribute to the public realm, such as by providing new public spaces, improving pedestrian and cycling links, or enhancing the streetscape.
• Sustainability: Outline the sustainability measures that have been incorporated into the design, such as energy efficiency, water conservation, and the use of sustainable materials.

By carefully considering these factors and presenting them clearly in the Design and Access Statement, you can demonstrate the quality of your proposal and increase the chances of it being approved.

3. Site Plan

A site plan is a crucial component of an outline planning permission application, as it provides a visual representation of the proposed development and its relationship to the surrounding area. It allows the planning authority to assess the feasibility of the scheme and its impact on the environment.

A well-prepared site plan should include the following information:

• The scale of the development, including the height, width, and depth of the buildings.
• The layout of the development, including the location of buildings, roads, and other infrastructure.
• The access to the development, including the location of entrances and exits.

By submitting a clear and detailed site plan, you can help the planning authority to understand your proposal and make an informed decision about whether to grant outline planning permission.

Here are some tips for preparing a site plan:

• Use a scale that is appropriate for the size of the development.
• Clearly label all features on the plan, including buildings, roads, and other infrastructure.
• Use different colors or shading to differentiate between different elements of the development.
• Submit the site plan in a format that is easy for the planning authority to review.

By following these tips, you can increase the chances of your outline planning permission application being approved.

Frequently Asked Questions on Outline Planning Permission Applications

This section addresses common questions and misconceptions surrounding outline planning permission applications, providing concise and informative answers to guide you through the process.

Question 1: What is outline planning permission?

Outline planning permission establishes whether a proposed development is acceptable in principle on a specific site, considering factors such as scale, layout, and access. It does not approve specific details like materials or building appearance, which are addressed in subsequent full planning applications.

Question 2: When is outline planning permission required?

An outline planning application is typically the first step when seeking planning permission for a new development. It is advisable before investing significant time and resources into detailed plans that may not align with planning policies.

Question 3: What are the key considerations for a successful outline planning application?

Success often hinges on demonstrating how the proposed development respects and enhances the surrounding area. This includes considering design, scale, access, and sustainability measures.

Question 4: What documents are required for an outline planning application?

Typically, an application includes a completed form, design and access statement, site plan, and the required planning fee.

Question 5: What happens after submitting an outline planning application?

The local planning authority reviews the application and makes a decision within a set timeframe. If approved, outline planning permission is granted, allowing you to proceed with a full planning application for detailed approval.

Question 6: What are the benefits of obtaining outline planning permission?

Securing outline planning permission provides valuable insights into the acceptability of a development proposal, reduces the risk of investing in detailed plans that may not be approved, and streamlines the overall planning process.

Understanding these key aspects of outline planning permission applications can increase the likelihood of a successful outcome and support informed decision-making throughout the development process.

Moving forward, we will delve into the process of applying for outline planning permission, exploring each step in detail to provide a comprehensive understanding and practical guidance.

Tips for Applying for Outline Planning Permission

Applying for outline planning permission can be a complex and time-consuming process, but there are a number of things you can do to increase your chances of success.

Tip 1: Engage with the Local Planning Authority

Before submitting an application, it is advisable to engage with the local planning authority. This will give you an opportunity to discuss your proposals and get their feedback. This can help you to avoid submitting an application that is likely to be refused.

Tip 2: Prepare a Comprehensive Application

Your application should be as comprehensive as possible. This means including all of the required information and supporting documents. A well-prepared application will make it easier for the planning authority to make a decision on your application.

Tip 3: Consider the Design of Your Development

The design of your development is an important factor in whether or not your application is approved. Your design should be sympathetic to the surrounding area and should respect the local landscape.

Tip 4: Seek Professional Advice

If you are not sure how to apply for outline planning permission, it is advisable to seek professional advice. A planning consultant can help you to prepare your application and can guide you through the process.

Tip 5: Be Patient

The planning process can take time. It is important to be patient and to not give up if your application is not approved first time round.

Planning Permission Success

Applying for outline planning permission can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it is an essential step in the development process. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of success.

Remember to engage with the local planning authority, prepare a comprehensive application, consider the design of your development, and seek professional advice if necessary. Most importantly, be patient and persistent throughout the process.