Please see the list below for answers to frequently asked questions regarding supporting documents for applications:
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A design and access statement is a report supporting a planning application. It is required for many types of planning application – you can find more information about when they are needed on the Planning Portal.
The Government’s adviser on architecture and design (the Commission for Architecture and Built Environment) has produced a guide to Design and Access Statements.
All applications must be accompanied by a site location plan and a block plan. You can buy both types of plan through the Planning Portal.
A site location plan (sometimes called a ‘location plan’) shows the proposed development in relation to its surrounding properties.
It must be based on an up-to-date map and at an identified standard metric scale (typically 1:1250 or 1:2500).
The site of the proposed development needs to be outlined in red and any other land owned by the applicant that is close to or adjoining the site needs to be outlined in blue.
A block plan (sometimes and confusingly called a ‘site plan’) shows the proposed development in relation to the property boundary.
Block plans are typically submitted at a scale of either 1:200 or 1:500 and should include the following:
If you are not sure whether your plans are suitable or require further assistance you should contact your local planning authority for advice.
You can find contact information for your local planning authority on the Portal.
Yes, you can buy a map to accompany your planning application from one of our accredited mapping partners.
You can buy your plans from here or from within the application service.
The Planning Portal decided to remove its own site location plan tool in Summer 2010 and work with its accredited partners instead.
