BCP Council have issued an updated set of validation requirements apply to every application submitted in BCP. Read on to see how this impacts your scheme…
BCP Council has introduced an updated Local Validation Checklist for planning applications, bringing together clearer guidance and more consistent information requirements for householders. The aim is to reduce invalid applications and speed up the planning process.
What you need to submit for a householder application
For most householder planning applications, you’ll typically need:
- A completed planning application form and the correct fee.
- A location plan and site plan.
- Existing and proposed floor plans and elevations.
- Existing and proposed site levels where relevant.
- Roof plans where roof alterations are proposed.
- A Design and Access Statement (only where required by national legislation).
- Photographs where they help explain the proposal.
- Details of external materials and finishes.
- Any specialist reports required by site constraints, such as:
- Biodiversity information.
- Trees and landscaping.
- Flood risk or drainage information.
- Heritage or conservation reports.
- Coastal vulnerability or geotechnical assessments where applicable.
The full validation document can be found here.
What’s changed from previous years?
The biggest changes aren’t necessarily additional documents for every homeowner, but a more structured approach to validation:
- Clearer, risk-based requirements – Supporting reports are now more closely linked to the specific characteristics of your site rather than being requested as standard.
- Greater emphasis on biodiversity – The checklist now includes updated biodiversity guidance and references to Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements where applicable, although most straightforward householder extensions remain exempt from mandatory BNG. Th
- New coastal and ground stability requirements – Applications in coastal erosion or vulnerable ground areas may now require a Coastal Vulnerability Assessment and geotechnical information.
- Improved validation matrix – The new checklist makes it easier to identify exactly which documents are required for different types of householder proposals, helping to reduce delays caused by invalid applications.
- More consistent document standards – The revised guidance places greater emphasis on submitting accurate, scaled drawings and sufficient supporting information at the point of application, reducing requests for additional information later in the process.
For our clients, the biggest impact will be the greater emphasis on bio-diversity. The new checklist requires a Preliminary Roost Appraisal (or Bat Survey) to ensure no bats are living within your properties structure. This requirement applies for proposals such as loft conversions, or where demolition is taking place.
For homeowners planning an extension, loft conversion or other domestic alterations in Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole, reviewing the updated checklist before submitting an application should help avoid validation delays and improve the chances of a smooth planning process.
Luckily for clients of Design & Development Associates we manage all applications as part of our standard process, so you have peace of mind that the above new standards are addressed and adhered to ensure the greatest chance of planning success.
If you are considering a home extension, loft conversion or looking for an architect or architectural design service in Poole, Bournemouth or Christchurch, why not contact one of our architectural designers for a free no-obligation consultation.
Call us now on 01202 233435 or email [email protected] to see how we can assist you.