Apply for planning permission

Find out how to submit a planning application and the cost. Check you have included the correct documents. View our validation checklist.

Page Contents:

Before you apply

There are a few things you should know:

Ways to apply

We recommend you apply online through the Planning Portal. It's quick, easy and you will be guided through the process. You can also save your application if you need to finish it later. When you are ready they send your application form, documents and fee directly to us.

Submit your application on the Planning Portal

If you prefer to email or post your application download and print a paper form. Pay the fee on our secure payment website. Send one copy of everything, including your payment reference to us. Our contact details are shown when you choose your form.

Hazardous Substances Consent (HSC) is required when substances on a site are at, or in excess of the 'controlled quantity'. This is set out in the Planning (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2015. What constitutes a Hazardous Substance are set out within the same regulations.

You cannot apply for HSC on the Planning Portal. The HSE website provides an online 'wizard' to guide applicants through the major-hazard information required in an application for HSC. Apply for Hazardous Substances Consent on the HSE website. The Gov.uk website explains what to include in your application and how much it will cost. The timescale for a decision is 8 weeks from the date we receive all the required information and fee. Pay for your application online.

Public Register of Sites
Section 28 of the Planning (Hazardous Substance) Act 1990 requires us to maintain a public register of hazardous substances sites. To view all the applications in Northumberland pick Hazardous Substances Consent Application from the drop down Application Type list. Leave all the other fields blank.

What you must submit - validation checklists

Your application must include what we need to make a decision. Submit everything together so your application is complete when we receive it. We won't pass your application to a planning officer until it is valid (complete). Some plans and reports take a while to produce so allow time for this. You must send us:

  1. A completed application form (Note 1 below).
  2. The correct application fee (Note 2 below).
  3. National planning application requirements (Notes 1-7 below).
  4. Local planning application requirements (Notes 8-40 below).
Our validation checklists cover the national and local requirements. This will help you prepare the right documents before you make an application. Choose a checklist that matches your application type from the list below. If you are applying for more than one application refer to each individual checklist. For example one for householder planning permission and one for listed building consent. Give yourself enough time to read this guidance, it's the best way to avoid a delay at validation. 
  1. Read the checklist to work out which information you need to submit for your application type.
  2. Refer to the note numbers provided in the national and local requirements lists below for the detailed guidance. 

Householder Planning Permission Validation Checklist

  1. Read the checklist to work out which information you need to submit for your application type.
  2. Refer to the note numbers provided in the national and local requirements lists below for the detailed guidance. 
Lawful Development Certificate - Existing Use Validation Checklist

Lawful Development Certificate - Proposed Use Validation Checklist

Certificate of Lawfulness for Proposed Works to a Listed Building Validation Checklist
  1. Read the checklist to work out which information you need to submit for your application type.
  2. Refer to the note numbers provided in the national and local requirements lists below for the detailed guidance. 
Listed Building Consent Validation Checklist

Demolition in a Conservation Area Validation Checklist
  1. Read the checklist to work out which information you need to submit for your application type.
  2. Refer to the note numbers provided in the national and local requirements lists below for the detailed guidance. 

You are responsible for submitting the correct documents with your application. If you do not, we may refuse it.

Approval of Details Reserved by Condition (discharge) Validation Checklist

Non-material Amendment Validation Checklist

Removal or Variation of a Condition Validation Checklist

We don't currently have a checklist for this application type. This is because proposals can be very different in size or scale. We advise you to look through each note from the National and the Local requirements lists on the pages below. They will explain what you must submit.

Outline planning permission

We don't currently have a checklist for this application type. This is because proposals can be very different in size or scale. We do ask for some documents at Outline stage rather than later at reserved matters. Consultees and Planning Officer's need this information up front to assess if the developer can make a site suitable for its proposed end use. Ensuring a development is deliverable and avoiding layout changes later. These are not documents that can be conditioned or provided later. We will make the application invalid if you do not provide them.

We advise you to look through each note from the National and the Local requirements lists on the pages below. They will explain what you must submit.

Approval of reserved matters

We don't currently have a checklist for this application type. This is because proposals can be very different in size or scale. We advise you to look through each note from the National and the Local requirements lists on the pages below. They will explain what you must submit.

We don't currently have a checklist for these application types, but we are working on them.

We advise you to look through each note from the National and the Local requirements lists on the pages below. They will explain what you must submit.
  1. Read the checklist to work out which information you need to submit for your application type.
  2. Refer to the note numbers provided in the national and local requirements lists below for the detailed guidance. 
Tree Works: Trees Protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPO's) Validation Checklist

Tree Works: Trees in Conservation Areas Validation Checklist

Other applications

We don't currently have a checklist for other application types, but we are working on these.

We advise you to look through each note from the National and the Local requirements lists on the pages below. They will explain what you must submit.

National planning application requirements

These are set by Government policy and apply across the UK.

We need this information to process and record your application. Read the help text as you complete the form. Where required, the form includes ownership certificates and the agricultural land declaration.

Required for

  • All planning applications.

Check it's valid

  1. Answer all questions in full. Include the full title, name and address of the applicant if you are acting as their agent.
  2. Complete only one ownership certificate (if provided on the form). Check which ownership certificate to sign. Serve the correct notice if you are not the sole owner.
  3. Complete the agricultural land declaration (if provided on the form).

Where to get an application form

Apply online via the Planning Portal

Download printable forms from the Planning Portal.

If you need to submit more than one type of application choose one form that combines both types of permission. For example, listed building consent and householder planning permission with listed building consent.

Government sets the fees, they are the same across England. The application fee must be paid when you submit your application. If you have a question about calculating fees read our planning fees and charges guidance. It explains what we class as floorspace, annexes and holiday lets. Including how to calculate fees for caravan sites and static caravans.

Required for

  • All applications unless exempt from payment.

Check it's valid

  1. Pay the correct fee with the application. Or select the correct exemption.
  2. Measure externally not internally when calculating fees based on floorspace.

Work out the cost

Calculate your fees on the Planning Portal

Or download the government list of fees and exemptions for planning applications.

How to pay

If you apply on the Portal pay the fee directly to them not us. They will not release the application to us until your payment clears. If submitting by email or post pay on our secure online payments page.

What else you should know

You may need to pay a coastal mitigation contribution if your development will increase the number of people living or staying within 7km of our coast. Whether you are developing one property or several, including caravan parks. This is payable on first occupation of the building. Check if the coastal mitigation service layer covers your site on our development plan policies map. Learn about about developer contributions and our coastal mitigation service at Space for Shorebirds. 

Your location plan must show the application site in relation to the surrounding area. Do this by edging the site boundary with a continous red line. Include only the land you will need to carry out the works. This helps us find the correct site and transfer this to our back office system. View our example of a location plan.

Required for

  • Householder planning permission.
  • Full planning permission.
  • Listed building consent.
  • Outline planning permission.
  • Consent to display an advertisement.
  • Demolition in a conservation area.
  • Regulation 77 application.
Submit either a location plan or site plan for these applications. It must show the proposed development:
  • Lawful development certificate or Certificate of lawfulness for proposed works to a listed building. 
  • Prior approval applications.
  • Hedgerow removal notice.

Check it's valid

  1. Comply with all the Government criteria for information that should be included on a location plan.
  2. Show the direction of North.
  3. Add the red line correctly. View our example of a location plan and avoid common mistakes.
  4. For outline planning permission indicate the area or areas where access points will be situated. Even if access is a reserved matter.
  5. The red line must include the access from the site back to the public highway where the proposal includes:
    • any new development or change of use. 
    • creation of a new access or works to an existing access. 
    • But not for the following: Lawful Development Certificates, Certificate of Lawfulness and Prior Approval (apart from telecommunications or roads).

Purchase a location plan

Useful links
These show the development in relation to the site boundaries. Including other buildings on the site. They are sometimes called block plans. We use them to assess the impact of your proposal on the site and immediate surroundings. View our example of site plans.

Required for
  • Householder planning permission.
  • Full planning permission.
  • Listed building consent.
  • Removal or variation of a condition or Non-material amendment where:
    •  the proposed change will affect the site layout.
  • Outline planning permission. (But not if layout is a reserved matter).
  • Approval of reserved matters where:
    • layout is applied for as part of the application.
  • Consent to display an advertisement where:
    • more than one advert is proposed.
  • Demolition in a conservation area.
Submit either a location plan or site plan for these applications. It must show the proposed development:
  • Lawful development certificate or Certificate of lawfulness for proposed works to a listed building. 
  • Prior approval applications.
  • Hedgerow removal notice.

We do not need a site plan if the site layout or boundary is unaffected. Or if there’s no change proposed to the building footprint, door or window openings.

Check it's valid

  1. Provide both existing (before) and proposed (after) site plans. Clearly labelled so we can see the difference.
  2. Draw plans to a common metric scale (typically 1:100, 1:200 or 1:500). Or as appropriate for larger sites.
  3. Show the direction of North.
  4. Use an up-to-date base map.
  5. Show these on-site features if they would influence or be affected by your proposal:
    • Parking or access arrangements.
    • The extent and type of hard surfacing.
    • Boundary treatment (mark the position, type and height, for example 'timber post and rail fence 1.5m high').
    • Trees.
    • Public rights of way.
  6. Show these features if they are adjoining your site. But only if they would influence or be affected by your proposal:
    • Buildings.
    • Roads, footpaths and public rights of way. Including any impact the development will have on the position or surface.
    • Trees.

Purchase a site plan

You can buy a site plan from sites such as requestaplan.co.uk or buyaplan.co.uk.

This should explain the design of your proposal. Demonstrating how it fits the site and its wider setting. Explain how prospective users can easily access it.

Required for

  • Listed building consent.
  • Householder planning permission for:
    • extensions over 100 square metres within a conservation area or world heritage site.
  • Full or outline planning permission for:
    • one or more new dwellings within a conservation area or world heritage site.
    • 10 or more new dwellings (or a 0.5 hectare site with an unknown number of dwellings).
    • 100 square metres or more of new floorspace within a conservation area or world heritage site. This includes extensions
    • 1000 square metres or more of new floorspace (including extensions).
    • one hectare or more site area. (But not for waste development, engineering and mining operations.)

We do not need a design and access statement for change of use with no development. 

Check if you are in a conservation area or world heritage site on our constraints map

Check it's valid

  • Make it clear on the front cover that a design and access statement is included.

How to prepare this information

Biodiversity net gain (BNG) is a way of creating and improving natural habitats for wildlife. It makes sure they are left in a better state than they were before the development. Developers must measure biodiversity when planning a development. Improve this by at least 10 percent once the development is complete. Then maintain that habitat.

Required for
  • Full or Outline planning permission that includes:
    • major development.
    • minor development (small sites).
  • Removal or variation of a condition on the above if:
    • the original application was submitted to us on or after 12 February 2024 for major applications. Or 2 April 2024 for minor applications.
  • Demolition in a conservation area.

Some types of development are exempt. Including householder applications and certain custom or self-build proposals. GOV.UK: BNG exempt developments.

The applicant or agent is responsible for making sure the development is exempt before submitting the application. The ecology team will check exemptions after the application goes through validation. If the proposal is found not to be exempt the application will be made invalid. This will delay your application as the timescale for a decision only starts from the valid date.

Check it's valid

  • Confirm on the application form whether your development is exempt from BNG. If exempt, state your reason.
  • If not exempt, answer all the applicable BNG questions on the application form.
  • If not exempt, include the following documents as explained on the application form:
    • A completed biodiversity metric.
    • A plan showing existing or pre-commencement on-site habitat. 
    • You will also need to provide a Biodiversity Net Gain Strategy. This is explained separately on Note 14 of our local requirements.

How to prepare this information

The biodiversity value of a site is calculated in units using the 'statutory biodiversity metric tool'. The developer must plan to increase the units by at least 10 percent. Ideally on-site by improving existing habitat or creating new habitat. Or off-site (where on-site is not possible). An ecologist can help assess the biodiversity value of the existing habitat. Then give advice on how suitable habitat can be created or enhanced. 

Further guidance and metric tools Designated sites and priority habitats in Northumberland
  • Boundaries of SSSIs, Local Wildlife Sites, Local Nature Reserves and the Southeast Northumberland Wildlife Network can be found on our Local Plan Policies map. Select Northumberland Local Plan Policies, Environment, then Policy ENV2.
  • Habitats of Principal Importance (HPI) can be found on the DEFRA Magic mapping website. Select habitats and species, habitats, other, then priority habitats inventory. 

Also known as ‘Planning Gateway One’. This ensures developers plan for fire safety in high-rise residential buildings. For example site layout, water supplies for firefighting and access to fire appliances.

Required for

  • Full planning permission, Approval of reserved matters or Prior approval applications. But only if the building will:
    • contain two or more dwellings (including flats) or residential educational accommodation, and
    • meet the height condition of 18 metres or more in height, or 7 or more storeys.

This applies to new buildings and development of existing buildings. Some types of development are exempt. GOV.UK: fire statement exempt developments.

Check it's valid

  • Submit your fire statement on the form published by the Secretary of State. Or a form containing the same information. 
  • Answer all the questions on the form.
  • If you believe your development is exempt supply a statement explaining why.
How to prepare this information

National guidance and template form:

Local planning application requirements

This local list is set by us as the Local Planning Authority for Northumberland. It contains the information planning officers and consultees need to assess your application. We explain the documents you must submit and the standards we expect.

This list was revised and re-published on 1st July in line with Government policy on locals lists. It applies to all applications received on or after 1st July 2024. If you've been sent an invalid letter for an application submitted before 1st July refer to our previous validation checklist (2022 to 30 June 2024).
We need these to assess what your finished development will look like. In comparison with what is already there. Check your drawings comply with our 'validation criteria' listed below.

We normally require two sets of drawings for each document type:
  • Existing - showing the development as it is now. (Or as it was for retrospective applications). Label them as 'existing'.
  • Proposed - showing the development as it will look after work has been carried out. (Or as it has been built for retrospective applications). Label them as 'proposed'.

Elevations

Elevations show a flat representation of the outside face of a building. They are usually labelled according to the direction they face. So front (north) elevation, side (east) elevation, and so on. They help us understand how the work you propose to do will affect each face of the building. You need to include every elevation that will change, or from which you will see the change. For example if you would see part of your rear extension while facing the front elevation, we need that too.

Elevations are required for:

  • Householder planning permission, Listed building consent, Full planning permission and Outline planning permission (where scale or appearance is applied for) for:
    • new buildings or structures (including outbuildings).
    • alteration to existing elevations (including outbuildings, window or door alteration or replacement, solar panels).
    • demolition.
  • Reserved matters applications where:
    • scale or appearance is applied for.
  • Prior approval applications for:
    • change of use to a residential dwelling or flat.
  • Removal or variation of a condition or Non-material amendment where:
    • you propose to amend the approved elevations. (We only need proposed drawings.)
  • Consent to display an advertisement where:
    • the adverts will be attached to a building or structure.
  • Demolition in a conservation area. (For total demolition we only need existing drawings.)

Floor plans

Floor plans show the layout of the building from a birds-eye view. They help us understand the relationships between rooms, spaces and other physical features. Include a plan for every floor that will change. They are usually labelled as ground floor, first floor, and so on.

Floor plans are required for:

  • Householder planning permission, Full planning permission and Outline planning permission (where scale or appearance is not reserved) for:
    • new buildings or structures (including outbuildings).
    • extension to existing buildings (including outbuildings).
    • new or altered window or door openings.
  • Listed building consent for:
    • internal changes.
    • new or altered window or door openings.
    • demolition.
  • Reserved matters applications (where scale or appearance is applied for).
  • Prior approval applications for:
    • change of use to a residential dwelling or flat.
  • Removal or variation of a condition or Non-material amendment where:
    • you propose to amend the approved floor plans. (We only need proposed drawings.)
  • Demolition in a conservation area. (For total demolition we only need existing drawings.)
  • Regulation 77 application.

Roof plans

Roof plans show the roof from a birds-eye view. They help us understand changes to the appearance and shape. Include features such as valleys, ridges, hips, direction of slopes and drainage. Also chimneys, vents and roof lights.

Roof plans are required for:

  • Householder planning permission, Full planning permission and Outline planning permission (where scale or appearance is applied for) for:
    • alteration to the shape of an existing roof (such as changing a flat roof to pitched or addition of dormer windows, or solar panels).
    • any change to the roof of a building within a conservation area.
  • Listed building consent for:
    • any change to the roof of a building (this includes solar panels).
    • demolition.
  • Removal or variation of a condition or Non-material amendment where:
    • you propose to amend the approved roof plans. (We only need proposed drawings.)
  • Demolition in a conservation area. (For total demolition we only need existing drawings.)

We don't ask for these for new buildings but submitting them would help us understand a complex roof. If you submit them we'll assess them using the criteria below.

Validation criteria for drawings

Around 35 percent of applications are invalid because there are mistakes on the drawings. Or because they were not included with the application. Avoid delays and check the following:
  1. Provide a scaled drawing for every elevation, floor or roof where we would see a change. We do not accept photographs of plans.
  2. Include existing and proposed drawings as necessary, labelled as such.
  3. Label each drawing clearly so we can see what they show. For example Front (north) elevation, Side (east) elevation, Ground floor plan, First floor plan.
  4. Draw to a scale of 1:50 or 1:100, state this on the drawing.
  5. Include a scale bar or at least one measurement that matches the scale stated. So we can check the scale is correct.
  6. Submit plans at the correct paper size so the scale measures as stated. We cannot accept a drawing that states the scale as 1:100@A1 on a page sized at A3. It will not measure correctly.
  7. Show all windows and doors (including high level windows). The position and size of these must match any corresponding floor, elevation or roof drawings.
  8. Show the relationship where one building adjoins another.
  9. Highlight any structures to be demolished.
  10. We must be able to read all information shown.
For garden sheds, summerhouses and greenhouses we will accept a product brochure or drawing without a scale or bar. These must be legible, show all the required detail and measurements (in metric). Including window and door positions and all elevations otherwise we will request a scaled drawing.

For Lawful Development Certificates the drawings below are recommended, not mandatory. If they are submitted we will assess them using the above criteria.

Why we ask for a scale bar
They give us a specific measurement so we can check drawings have not been distorted by copying, printing or resizing. We check this to prevent delay during the decision-making process. It also aids consultees and interested parties when viewing and measuring plans online. Plans should be measure correctly so we can maintain an accurate register of what is approved.

Window and door detail drawings

Provide detailed drawings for each individual window or door you are altering, replacing or installing. We only need the proposed drawings. Include both elevations and details of features (architrave, glazing bars and mouldings for example). These are needed in addition to any building elevations or floor plans described at Note 9. Together these help us assess the impact of the changes on the listed building.

You must submit window and door drawings for:
  • Listed building consent for:
    • alterations to windows and doors.
Check your window and door drawings are valid
  1. Provide proposed drawings.
  2. Draw to a scale of 1:20 or less and proposed details at 1:5 or less. Or provide measurements covering all dimensions.
  3. State the scale on the drawing. Include a scale bar or at least one measurement that matches the scale stated. So we can check the scale is correct.
  4. Specify the proposed materials and colour.
  5. Submit plans at the correct paper size so the scale measures as stated. We cannot accept a drawing that states the scale as 1:20@A3 on a page sized at A4. It will not measure correctly.
  6. We must be able to read all information shown.
  7. We do not accept photographs of plans or in place of plans.

Boundary elevation drawings

Elevations show a flat representation of the fence, wall or gate. We'll need elevation drawings to show your proposed boundary, but will accept photos of an existing boundary. We only need to see a portion of the boundary - not the whole length. They help us understand how the change could affect highway safety or the character of the area.

You must submit boundary elevations for:
  • Householder planning permission, Full planning permission and Outline planning permission (where scale or appearance is applied for) for new or altered fences, walls or gates that:
    • exceed 1m above ground level and will be located adjacent to a highway (or 2m for a school/nursery).
    • exceed 2m above ground level elsewhere.
  • Listed building consent for:
    • new or altered fences, walls or gates.
  • Demolition in a conservation area for:
    • a fence, wall or gate.

For the above purposes a highway is a road or a footpath next to a road.

Check your boundary elevations are valid

You must also mark the boundary position, type and height on your site plans. 
  1. Provide proposed drawings for new or altered boundaries.
  2. Include photos of an existing boundary for:
    1. demolition in a conservation area.
    2. changes to a boundary surrounding or within the curtilage of a listed building.
  3. Draw to a scale of 1:20, 1:50 or 1:100, state this on the drawing. Or provide measurements covering all dimensions.
  4. Include a scale bar or at least one measurement that matches the scale stated. So we can check the scale is correct.
  5. Specify the proposed materials and colour on the drawings or on the application form.
  6. Drawings must match the dimensions set out on the application form.
  7. Submit plans at the correct paper size so the scale measures as stated. We cannot accept a drawing that states the scale as 1:50@A3 on a page sized at A4. It will not measure correctly.
  8. We must be able to read all information shown.
  9. We do not accept photographs of plans.

We cannot assess at validation what boundary changes are permitted development or require permission. So, if boundary alterations are indicated on the site plan or application form we'll ask for these elevations. Unless the site plan clearly states they are permitted development.

Advertisement drawings

These diagrams must show the proposed adverts, illumination and fittings. We use them to assess the impact of the advert(s) on existing buildings, the local area and highway safety. Remember to also show location of the advert(s) on your location plan or a site plan.

You must submit advertisement drawings for:
  • Consent to display an advertisement.

Check your advertisement drawings are valid

  1. Provide proposed drawings.
  2. Draw to a scale of 1:20, 1:50 or 1:100, state this on the drawing. Or provide measurements covering all dimensions.
  3. Include a scale bar or at least one measurement that matches the scale stated. So we can check the scale is correct.
  4. The drawings must show the: 
    • advert size, height above ground level and extent of projection.
    • a cross-section including through supporting structures or wall, including method of fixing.
    • materials and colours to be used.
    • details and method of any illumination.
  5. Drawings must match the dimensions set out on the application form.
  6. Submit plans at the correct paper size so the scale measures as stated. We cannot accept a drawing that states the scale as 1:50@A3 on a page sized at A4. It will not measure correctly.
  7. We must be able to read all information shown.
  8. We do not accept photographs of plans.
Why we ask for a scale bar
They give us a specific measurement so we can check drawings have not been distorted by copying, printing or resizing. We check this to prevent delay during the decision-making process. It also aids consultees and interested parties when viewing and measuring plans online. Plans must measure correctly so we can maintain an accurate register of what is approved.
Certain developments for new housing must include a percentage of affordable homes. This helps ensure an appropriate mix of housing types for the local community. Your statement must explain how you will provide this.

Required for
  • Full planning permission or Approval of reserved matters for:
    • 10 or more dwellings (or less than 10 dwellings but 0.5ha or more site area).
    • 5-9 dwellings within the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). 
Check if your site is in the AONB on our constraints map

Check it's valid
  • Make it clear on the front cover that an affordable housing statement is included.

How to prepare this information

Explain how you will provide affordable housing:

  • On site or off site contribution. Tell us the type of units, such as dwelling houses, flats. Specify the type of housing, such as social, affordable rent or intermediate. Identify their location on the site plans.
  • Off-site financial contribution. Include a financial viability appraisal identifying a suggested amount. Provide details such as land price, build costs and estimated sales prices. A chartered professional (such as a member of RICS) must write this.
  • No affordable housing. Include a financial viability appraisal explaining why you can't provide this contribution. Provide details such as land price, build costs and estimated sales prices. A chartered professional (such as a member of RICS) must write this.

The minimum percentage of homes you must provide depends on which value area the site is within. We list the percentages in Policy HOU 6 of our Northumberland Local Plan. The housing viability value areas are available on our interactive Policies Map.

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

Some developments introduce new sources of air pollution, dust and odour. This has a direct effect on public health, habitats and biodiversity. We use your assessment to identify how your development could affect air quality and what you will do about it.

Required for

  • Full planning permission or Approval of reserved matters for:
    • 100 or more new dwellings (including residential caravan parks).
    • 10,000 square metres or more of new floorspace.
    • a combined heat and power plant.   
    • industrial processes where there are direct emissions to the air. 
    • new minerals sites or extensions to existing sites.  
    • significant changes to highways infrastructure such as duelling works or new roundabouts.
Check it's valid
  • Check your assessment was produced in the last 3 years or include an up-to-date addendum.
  • Make it clear on the front cover that an air quality assessment is included.
How to prepare this information

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

It's purpose is to provide a record of the listed building, structure or complex as it is, including its setting. These form an important part of our archaeological resource. This helps identify parts of the building that should be retained.

Required for

  • Listed building consent that includes:
    • demolition of a building or structure (but not a boundary wall).
Check it's valid
  • State the document is or includes an archaeological building assessment on the cover page.
​​How to prepare this information
  • It should establish the character, history, dating, form and archaeological development. 
  • The County Archaeologist can provide further advice on what you should include.
  • It must be produced by a suitably qualified archaeologist or buildings historian. Try the Institute of Historic Building Conservation.

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

We use this to understand the impact of your proposal on Northumberland's heritage assets. It will tell us if archaeological features (known or unknown) are likely to survive within the site. The DBA will tell you if further archaeological field evaluation is required. Submit this where necessary.

Required for

  • Full or Outline planning permission. Only when the red line boundary includes a heritage asset and proposes the following:  
    • Any new building or ground floor extension.
    • Ground reduction or levelling. 
    • New sections of road or track. ​
    • Installation of underground services such as drainage, sewerage, electric cable, ground source heating pipework. 
  • Full or Outline planning permission on:
    • sites of 1ha or more that propose external works.
Heritage assets include:
  • scheduled monuments
  • registered battlefields 
  • Hadrians Wall world heritage site (but not the buffer zone)
Check heritage assets on our constraints map

Check it's valid
  • Make it clear on the front cover that an archaeological assessment or statement is included.
How to prepare this information
  • Assess both known or potential archaeological resource within and around the development site.
  • Identify the likely character, extent and significance.
  • Assess the direct (physical) impacts of the proposal on the setting of the heritage assets affected.
  • Information on heritage assets can be checked on Historic England's National Heritage List for England (NHLE).
  • Seek advice from Historic England for sites on or close to Scheduled Monuments.
  • Assessments must be produced by a suitably qualified archaeologist. Try the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists.
If any of the following apply a desk based assessment may not be required. We cannot tell this at validation. So you must make it clear by submitting an 'archaeological statement'. It must clearly demonstrate how these circumstances apply to your site.
  • No groundworks are required.
  • The site is a mid-20th century or later brownfield site.
  • The site has had significant previous ground disturbance.

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

Government set the national requirements for biodiversity net gain (BNG). We can ask for extra information, beyond the national requirements. As explained in paragraphs 013 and 015 of Planning Practice Guidance. This helps us assess your proposal when making a decision. The BNG strategy must set out how you will achieve 10 percent BNG.

Required for 

  • All applications where national BNG requirements apply.

Check it is valid

  • Make it clear on the front cover that a BNG strategy is included.
  • Include a completed draft metric for the proposed scheme.

How to prepare this information

Read our BNG guidance for developers and ecological consultants. A professional ecologist must prepare the strategy. They must have suitable qualifications and experience.

Biomass boilers can affect air quality and human health. Your boiler must meet certain standards. We need the details on this form to assess what system you are installing and which controls you must apply.

Required for

  • Householder planning permission, Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters for:
    • ​proposals that include a new or replacement biomass boiler.
Check it's valid
  • Submit a completed form with your application.
How to prepare this information Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.
Mine gases such as Blackdamp (stythe) reduce oxygen in the air. They can accumulate at a site or migrate to it and cause a risk to life. The Coal Authority divides the Northumberland coalfield into two areas. Low risk and high risk. Together these are known as the Coal Mining Reporting Area (CMRA). If a proposed residential development is within the CMRA you have to consider mine gas. Your assessment must show if a site is within the CMRA it can be made safe for future occupants (mitigation). It must include details of any proposed protective measures to prevent the ingress of hazardous ground gases.

Required for
  • Full and Outline planning permission for: 
    • new minor or major residential development (houses, flats, nursing homes) in the high risk coal mining reporting area. 
    • new major residential development (houses, flats, nursing homes) in the low risk coal mining reporting area. 
We do not need an assessment for change of use.

Check if your site is in the high or low risk area

Use the Coal Authority Interactive Map Viewer 

Make sure the Development High Risk Area layer is also ticked. You may have to zoom in or out before you can see the layer.
  • Low risk area (85% of the coalfield): This is the known extent of coal mining activity. A large number of mining features in this area have never been located or recorded. Mine gases can find routes to the surface through these features.  
  • High risk area (15% of the coalfield): This is a record of known historic mining features that could cause a risk to new development on the surface. It includes recorded mine gas sites. 
Check it's valid
  • Make it clear on the front cover that a mine gas risk assessment is included. We won't search through reports to find this information.
How to prepare this information

​For guidance please refer to Good Practice for Risk Assessment for Coal Mine Gas Emissions from CL:AIRE. This explains how to commission and undertake mine gas risk assessments. It will help you establish whether protection measures are required in the proposed building. Such as gas membrane and sealing up around service ducts. 

For further guidance please refer to:

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

You are responsible for making sure your site is safe and suitable for development. This includes considering the risks from coal mining that could affect land stability. The Coal Authority have split the coalfield into two areas based on the degree of risk. All land within the coalfield falls within either a Development High Risk Area or Development Low Risk Area. 

If your site is in the High Risk Area you may need to submit a CMRA. It must identify the risks and explain what you can do to make the site safe for it's proposed use. This helps us ensure development does not occur in unstable locations or without precautions.

Required for

  • Full and Outline planning permission within the Development High Risk Area.

Check if your site is in a high risk area on the Coal Authority map.

Some developments are exempt. View Part B of the exemptions list on GOV.UK. Some sites can be in the High Risk Area but the area of built development is located in the Low Risk Area. If this is the case we won't need a CRMA for validation.

Check it's valid

  • Check any desk-based report was produced in the last 4 years or include an up-to-date addendum. A site investigation report can be older.
  • Make it clear on the front cover that a coal mining risk assessment is included. We won't search through reports to find this information.
  • It must be the final version, not the ‘draft’ or ‘issue for comments’ version.
  • We don't accept the following reports in place of a CMRA. They provide an assessment of the current site, not the proposed development. So they don't include the information we need.
    • Enviro-All-in-One report.
    • CON29M report or residential COND29M.
    • Consultants coal mining report.

How to prepare this information

Read the Coal Mining Risk Assessments guidance at GOV.UK. It explains how to prepare an assessment and what it should contain.

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

We can only permit certain types of development in a Coastal Change Management Area (CCMA). Physical changes like building at the shoreline can affect these areas. It can lead to erosion, permanent flooding or sediment returning to the shore. Your assessment must identify the risks and explain what you can do to reduce the impact. This helps us assess whether your development is appropriate for it's location.

Required for
  • Full or Outline planning permission. Only when a CCMA covers any part of the site and the following is proposed:  
    • New buildings.
    • Demolition of buildings or rebuilding.
    • Extensions to existing buildings.
    • Sub-division to create additional dwelling(s).
    • A change in the use of any buildings or land.
    • Engineering, mining or other operations.
  • Householder planning permission. Only when a CCMA covers any part of the site and the following is proposed: 
    • Any extension that has an internal door to the existing dwelling. (Any garage with no connecting internal door is exempt.)
    • A new outbuilding or annexe that includes a bedroom.
Check your site for CCMA on our constraints map

Check it's valid
  • Check your assessment was produced in the last 3 years or include an up-to-date addendum.
  • Make it clear on the front cover that a coastal change vulnerability assessment is included.
How to prepare this information
  • Appoint a professional to produce this document.
  • It must assess the coastal change processes, sea defences and future policies.
  • It must show the development:
    1. will be safe over its planned lifetime.
    2. will not have an unacceptable impact on coastal change.
    3. will not compromise the character of the coast including designations.
    4. provides wider sustainability benefits.
    5. does not hinder the creation and maintenance of a continuous signed and managed route around the coast.
  • These links provide specific information for Northumberland:

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

Some plants, wildlife and the habitats they live in are protected by law. An ecology report will identify any protected species on or using your site. It means you can alter the design, layout or timing of your development before you apply. Avoiding obstacles or delays later and preventing breaches of legislation. Find out how we assess development that includes protected species at GOV.UK. 

Check if your proposal needs a report for these application types

  • Full planning permission.
  • Outline planning permission.
  • Householder planning permission.
  • Listed building consent.
  • Reserved matters applications.
  • Demolition in a conservation area.

It is the responsibility of the applicant or agent to submit the correct report with the application. We may refuse your application if the necessary reports are missing. Read our Ecology Checklist and Guidance Note. It explains:

  • How to check if your proposal needs an ecology report.
  • ​The types of ecology reports.
  • ​Where to get a report.
We do not need an ecology report for changes of use where there are no external works or roof works proposed. Or for replacement doors or windows (including roof windows or skylights).
 
Check it's valid
  • Make it clear on the front cover that the document includes the required report.
  • Make it clear on the front cover if the report reveals:
    • the location of badger setts, or
    • the nesting sites of birds of prey vulnerable to illegal persecution.
  • Check your report was produced in the last 2 years or include an up-to-date addendum.
  • State they are the 'final' version. We do not accept draft versions.
Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

Why reports cannot be provided later or conditioned

You must submit reports with the application not after. When dealing with ecological matters in planning we are required to follow the mitigation hierarchy (explained on GOV.UK). The first step in this is to avoid harm or disturbance. We cannot grant consent without assessing the full impact of your proposal on protected species. Otherwise we would be unable to fulfil our legal obligations or follow the mitigation hierarchy. It is also why we need reports at outline, not at the reserved matters stage. A grant of outline planning permission establishes the principle of development. If we did this without reports we would have ruled out the 'avoid' step of the mitigation hierarchy.

This must be specific to your site and proposed works. It helps establish if a development is likely to be affected by flooding from any source. Show how you will manage the risks over the lifetime of the development without increasing flood risk elsewhere. You could locate development in low risk areas or create safe access and escape routes. This assessment is required if a flood zone covers any part of the site. Including the access from the public highway. 

Required for

  • Full or Outline planning permission for:
    • all major applications within flood zones 1, 2 or 3.
    • any proposals within flood zones 2 or 3.
  • Householder planning permission:
    • within flood zones 2 or 3.
  • Prior approval applications for change of use:
    • within flood zones 2 or 3. (But not for temporary film making. Or for commercial to state funded school - Class T).
Check flood zones on the Environment Agency flood map for planning

Check it's valid
  • Check your assessment was produced in the last 3 years or include an up-to-date addendum.
  • Make it clear on the front cover that a flood risk assessment is included.

How to prepare this information

  1. For any extensions where the new floor area is 250 square metres or less submit a simple flood risk assessment form. We will accept this instead of a flood risk assessment.
  2. If the above does not apply check if your application is for a vulnerable development classified by the Environment Agency. If yes, you should follow the standing advice for vulnerable developments on Gov.uk.
  3. If your development is not covered by the standing advice follow the advice on flood risk assessments for planning applications on Gov.uk. Use the flood risk assessment checklist on Gov.uk.

Further guidance

Sequential test (flooding from all sources)

Flood zone 1 is at the lowest risk of flooding from tidal or fluvial sources. It is possible to have a development site which is within Flood Zone 1 but still within a high-risk surface water area. Use the sequential approach in areas known to be at risk. Whether now or in the future and from any form of flooding. The flood risk assessment will provide the basis for applying this test. Refer to the following links for further information and useful maps: 

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

We must ensure foul drainage does not pollute the surrounding ground, water quality or ecosystem. Supply a completed form so we can check if:

  • a new or replacement non-mains drainage system would be suitable.
  • the existing system can cope with any changes or additional load.

Required for

  • Full and Outline planning permission for:
    • any proposal that involves the disposal of foul sewage, effluent or trade waste. (But not if connecting to a mains public sewer).
    • a replacement non-mains sewerage system.
  • Householder permission for:
    • a new or replacement non-mains sewerage system.

Check it's valid

  • Include the completed form and plan of your non-mains drainage system. 

How to prepare this information

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

Development that has a positive influence on health and wellbeing will be supported. Use a Healthy Planning Checklist (HPC) to assess the potential health impacts of your proposal. It will help you maximise the positive health impacts and reduce the negative ones. The checklist or guidance may show you need a Rapid or a Full Health Impact Assessment (HIA). You must submit this with your application, not later. A Full HIA can take 4 to 6 months to prepare so allow time for this.

Required for

  • Full planning permission or Approval of reserved matters for:
    • all major applications.

Check it's valid

  • Make it clear on the front cover that the required checklist or assessment is included.

How to prepare this information

Download our Healthy Planning Checklist and guidance note.

If you need a Health Impact Assessment read our Rapid and Full HIA Template and guidance note. It should be carried out by a professional in this field.

You may find the following links useful:

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

Heritage assets are an irreplaceable resource, they should be conserved. Your statement must include an analysis of the significance and historic interest of the existing asset. Significance means, ‘the value of a heritage asset to this and future generations because of its heritage interest’. Interest may be archaeological, architectural, artistic or historic. Value can come from the asset itself or from its setting. Which is why your statement must also consider the impact of your development on both these. We take this into account when making a decision.

Heritage assets include:

  • listed buildings.
  • conservation areas.
  • scheduled monuments.
  • registered historic parks and gardens.
  • registered battlefields.
  • Hadrians Wall world heritage site (but not the buffer zone)

Check your site for heritage assets on our constraints map

Required for

  • Listed building consent for interior or exterior works.
  • Householder planning permission where:
    • the red line boundary contains a listed building.
    • the proposal includes external works and is within a conservation area.
  • Full or Outline planning permission where:
    • the red line boundary contains a listed building.
    • the proposal includes external works and is within a conservation area.
    • the site includes any heritage asset and is a major application.
  • Demolition in a conservation area.

Check it's valid

  • Make it clear on the front cover that a heritage statement is included. It can be part of a design and access statement. It may also be called a Statement of Heritage Significance or Heritage Impact Assessment. 
  • Photos must be included or the application will be made invalid.

How to prepare this information

  • For advice on what to include read our Heritage Statement Guidance.
  • The level of detail should be proportionate to the assets’ importance.
  • You can produce this yourself for simple proposals. We advise you to employ a qualified professional, try the Institute of Historic Building Conservation.
  • To help you analyse significance in heritage assets read Historic England Advice Note 12.
  • Historic England's list description is for identification purposes. Do not submit this in place of a heritage statement.
  • Historic England's list description may only describe part of a building. However, a listing covers both the interior and exterior. Your statement must cover all parts of the heritage asset affected by your proposal.
  • If the proposal involves the following you must include a justification. Identify the context and need for the demolition. This could be included within a structural survey:
    • Demolition in a conservation area.
    • Demolition of the whole or part of a listed building.

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

A Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment looks at the existing or potential contamination affecting a site. It will assess the risk to the development and its future users. It can also be called a Desk Study, Environmental Site Risk Assessment or Contaminated Land Risk Assessment. Contamination can occur on greenfield sites or on previously developed land. It can be caused by current or historic land uses, or by naturally occurring sources. We use this to check a site is suitable for its new use and to prevent unacceptable risk from pollution.

Required for

  • Full and Outline planning permission for the following proposed uses (new build or change of use to):
    • All residential developments (such as houses, flats, nursing homes).
    • Schools.
    • Nurseries and crèches.
    • Children’s play areas.
    • Playing fields.
    • Allotments.
    • Mixed use developments including the above vulnerable uses. 
  • Full and Outline planning permission on the following (where identified on ‘Existing Use’ section of the 1APP application form):
    • Land which is known to be contaminated.
    • Land where contamination is suspected for all or part of the site.

Check it's valid

  • Make it clear on the front cover that the appropriate assessment or screening form is included.

How to prepare a phase 1 assessment

You may also need a Phase 2 report

The results of a Phase 1 will indicate whether a Phase 2 Site Investigation is required. This is the second stage of assessment and involves excavation of the ground. You must submit this with the application if needed. If you don't supply a report or include unsuitable or incomplete reports it will cause delays or may result in refusal.

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

This should explain the hard and soft landscaping elements of your proposal. A qualified landscape architect may help you improve your scheme. We use this information to ensure developments include appropriate and effective landscaping.

Required for 

  • Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters that include:
    • major development.

We do not need an assessment for pure change of use or alteration to an existing building.

Check it's valid

  • Make it clear on the front cover that a landscaping scheme is included.

How to prepare this information

The submitted scheme should include: 

  1. A detailed plan of the site to show the hard and soft landscaping elements included in your proposal.
  2. Existing trees, shrubs and other landscape features. Indicate which are to be retained and which removed.
  3. Planting plans, specifications and schedules.
  4. Existing and proposed levels and contours. 
  5. Means of enclosure, walls, retaining walls and boundary treatment. 
  6. Paving and other surface treatment including car parking and circulation layouts. 
  7. Items of landscape furniture, equipment, storage, signage, and lighting.
  8. Services and drainage. 
  9. Location of site cabins and compounds.
  10. The location of any watercourse and associated landscaping as existing and proposed should also be shown. 
  11. Details of management and maintenance arrangements. 
  12. Identification of any existing features on the site that will be retained.

Sources of further information

British Standards guidance

  • BS 4428:1989: Code of Practice for General Landscape Operations (Excluding Hard Surfaces) 
  • BS8545:2014 Trees: From Nursery to Independence in the Landscape 
  • BS 7370-1 to BS 7370-5: Grounds Maintenance.

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

Artificial lighting can be beneficial but not all lighting is suitable in all locations. It can be a source of annoyance to people and harmful to wildlife. It can reduce enjoyment of the countryside or the night sky. You must submit this information so we can look at what lighting you propose and how it will impact:

  • publicly accessible areas (including external sports facilities and open floodlit menages).
  • community safety and antisocial behaviour.
  • existing residential property.
  • listed buildings and conservation areas.
  • open countryside.
  • biodiversity (bat roosts or feeding / commuting routes).

Required for

  • Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters that include:
    • major development with floodlighting.
    • sports complexes, pitches or fields with lighting proposed.
    • any lighting within a Northumberland Dark Sky Park.

Check if your site is in the Dark Sky Park on our constraints map

Check it's valid

  • Check your assessment was produced in the last 12 months or include an up-to-date addendum.
  • Make it clear on the front cover that a lighting assessment is included.

How to prepare this information

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

We use this to properly assess the acceptability of a proposed development.

Required for

  • Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters that include:
    • conversion of a community facility to a non-community use. Such as public house or local convenience shop to a dwelling house. 
    • removal of agricultural occupancy conditions.
    • conversion of industrial buildings to non-industrial uses.

Check it's valid

  • Check your assessment was produced in the last 6 months or include an up-to-date addendum.
  • Make it clear on the front cover that a marketing statement is included.

How to prepare this information

  • Include the following:
    • How, where and for how long the property or land has been marketed.
    • The price it was marketed at. 
    • The number and type of offers received including feedback.
    • Reasons for refusing offers.
  • You will need to show that:
    • the building has been marketed at a price reflecting its current or last use for a period of no less than six months. Include documentary evidence such as copies of the adverts. 
    • no reasonable offers have been received to continue the current use of the building.

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

This will look at the effect of your proposal on the mineral resource beneath or next to the site. Minerals are a non-renewable resource. Minerals safeguarding helps ensure non-minerals development does not prevent future extraction. We use this to check you have considered mineral safeguarding and prior extraction. Especially if development would prevent this later.

Required for

  • Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters within a Mineral Safeguarding Area that includes the following:
    • Major applications for new development.
    • Change of use of an existing building to:
      • 10 or more dwellings.
      • a school, boarding school, residential college or a residential training centre.
      • a residential care home or a nursing home.
      • a hospital.

View Minerals Safeguarding Areas on our constraints map

Check it's valid

  • Check your assessment was produced in the last 3 years or include an up-to-date addendum.
  • Make it clear on the front cover that a minerals safeguarding assessment is included. You can include it in a planning statement but make this clear on the cover. 

How to prepare this information

The requirements are explained in paragraph 13:20 of the Northumberland Local Plan. It does not need to be prepared by a professional person. Unless the proposed development would give rise to significant sterilisation.

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

You must consider whether your development will create noise pollution. Or if the development itself would be sensitive to an existing source of noise. Your proposal should avoid or minimise any negative impacts. This could be on nearby occupants, protected species or tranquil landscapes.

Required for
  • Householder planning permission for:
    • new or replacement air or ground source heat pumps.
  • Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters for:
    • a proposed noise sensitive land-use from List A (below) that will be next to an existing use from List B (below).
    • new build development (or change of use to) any potentially noisy land use in List B (below).
​List A - Noise sensitive land uses
  • A dwelling(s) including apartments.
  • Care/nursing homes.
  • Schools.
  • Children’s day nurseries.
  • Hospitals.
  • Hotels.
  • Hostels.
  • Areas of open countryside outside of settlement boundaries. These are North Pennines and Northumberland Coast AONBs and Kielder Water Forest Park. Check AONB on our Planning Constraints Map.
  • Designated sites with protected species. These are SSSIs, SPAs, SACs, Ramsar sites, Local Wildlife Sites, Local Nature Reserves. Check designated sites on our Planning Constraints Map.
List B - Potentially noisy land uses
  • Drinking establishments (e.g., pubs, night clubs).
  • Hot food takeaways.
  • General industrial (Use Class B2).
  • Storage & distribution (Use Class B8).
  • Hotel (Use Class C1).
  • Café/restaurant (Use Class Eb).
  • Indoor sport, recreation or fitness (Use Class Ed).
  • Crèche, day nursery or day centre (Use Class Ef).
  • Provision of education (Use Class F1a).
  • Public halls or exhibition halls (Use Class F1e).
  • Public worship or religious instruction (Use Class F1f).
  • Halls or meeting places for the principal use of the local community (Use Class F2b).
  • Areas or places for outdoor sport or recreation (Use Class F2c).
  • Indoor or outdoor swimming pools or skating rinks (Use Class F2d).
  • Theatres.
  • Amusement arcades.
  • Launderettes.
  • Petrol filling stations.
  • Scrap yards/vehicle dismantlers.
  • Casinos.
  • Concert or dance halls.
  • Bingo halls.
  • Mineral extraction.
  • Waste disposal.
  • Certain types of energy generation. Such as wind turbines, air or ground source heat pumps and biofuel production.
  • Railway lines and stations.
  • Classified A & B roads. Check a road classification on our map.
  • Airfields.
  • Bus stations.
Check it's valid
  • Make it clear on the front cover that a noise assessment is included.
How to prepare this information

Noise assessment for air or ground source heat pumps
  • It should be proportionate and take into account the local circumstances and nature of the installation. For example, make sure it won't cause noise issues for the householder or their neighbours.
  • Consider the following in your assessment:
    • operating noise level of the equipment and local background noise level in the area. This may be very low if a rural area.
    • whether it will be operating at night.
    • whether you will provide any enclosure containing noise insulation.
    • will there be regular maintenance. Equipment that is not maintained can cause noise levels to increase.
    • whether it is a single unit or multiple units all sited together. For example, at a block of flats.
  • Useful guidance on heat pumps is available from the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health and the Institute of Acoustics. View the Heat Pumps Professional Advice Note.
Noise assessment for other development
  • This should be prepared by a suitably qualified noise consultant.
  • Include the following in your assessment:
    • measurements of existing and/or proposed noise.
    • assessment of the impact of such noise on the occupiers, protected species and/or tranquil landscapes referred to above.
    • details of mitigation measures to address harmful noise pollution impacts arising in respect of the proposed development.

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

Sewage from development can increase nitrogen and phosphorus levels in rivers and waterbodies. Regardless of whether it ends up in a private sewage treatment plant or mains sewerage. This nutrient pollution disrupts natural processes and affects wildlife. Your nutrient budget must show the development won't cause increased pollution to protected sites. If it does not, we may not be able to grant permission. In Northumberland this applies to proposals within the Lindisfarne or River Eden Nutrient Neutrality catchments.

Required for

  • Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters. Only when the red line boundary includes the Lindisfarne or River Eden Nutrient Neutrality catchments and proposes the following:  
    • New residential units.
    • Change of use to residential.
    • Developments providing overnight accommodation. (But not change of use from residential to holiday let.)
    • Caravan sites, pitches and holiday lets. (Including extensions that would increase the number of rooms, units or pitches).
    • Agricultural development for new or extended livestock barns or slurry stores. (Only if it is likely to lead to an increase in herd size).
    • Anaerobic digesters.
  • Regulation 77 application. Only when the red line boundary includes the Lindisfarne or River Eden Nutrient Neutrality catchments and proposes the following:  
    • New residential units.
    • Change of use to residential.
    • Developments providing overnight accommodation.
    • Caravan sites, pitches and holiday lets.

Check if your site is within the Nutrient Neutrality Catchment on our constraints map

Check it's valid

  • Submit a completed Lindisfarne Nutrient Neutrality Budget.
  • Prepare your budget using the most recent version of the calculator.

How to prepare this information

Download and complete the nutrient budget calculator from Natural England: 

For instructions view guidance for using the nutrient neutrality calculators on Gov.uk.

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

This should assess the open space proposed to be lost as a result of your development. Open space includes all open space of public value. Such as formal sports pitches, open areas and amenity spaces within a development. It includes linear corridors, areas of water and country parks.
​
Required for
  • Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters for:
    • any development on protected open space that would not support the existing use. 
These are exemptions and examples of proposals that would support the existing use:
  • Erecting fencing round a cricket pitch or tennis court.
  • Resurfacing a grass pitch with an artificial surface.
  • A new building for equipment.
  • Extending the car park.
View protected open space on our planning constraints map

Check it's valid
  • Make it clear on the front cover that an open space assessment is included.
How to prepare this information
  • Appraise the quantity, quality, accessibility and functionality of the open space proposed to be lost.
  • Appraise the alternative provision of the type of open space to be lost in the immediate locality.
  • Focus on provision within the settlement in which development is proposed. Then neighbouring settlements, followed by the wider parish or ward. 
  • Cross reference how provision compares to standards (for quantity, quality, accessibility and functionality). These are set out in Appendix H1 of the Northumberland Local Plan.
  • You must demonstrate meaningful engagement with the local community. In order to understand how the open space, building or land is used and valued by the community. This should also consider the implications of its loss.
  • Include existing and proposed plans to an appropriate scale such as 1:200, 1:500 or 1:1000. Show any areas of open space within or partly within the application site. State the area measurements.
We will not approve development on existing open space unless you can show:
  • The open space is surplus to requirements. or
  • The loss resulting from the proposed development would be replaced. or
  • The development is for improved alternative sports and recreational provision.
For applications affecting a playing field refer to:

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

Wind turbine development can affect a greater number of people or whole communities. Because of this you need to consult with local communities before submitting an application. They must be given the opportunity to comment on your proposal before you submit a formal application. You must address the planning impacts identified by the affected community. We are unlikely to support your development if you cannot show the community supports it.

Required for
  • Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters for:
    • 2 or more new wind turbines.
    • any new turbine with a hub height more than 15 metres. Hub height is the distance from the turbine platform to the rotor of an installed wind turbine.
Check it's valid
  • Make it clear on the front cover that a pre-application consultation statement is included.
How to prepare this information

Some applications are exempt under The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015. If you believe this requirement does not apply to your application you must explain why in your statement. We cannot identify this at validation.

Your statement must show: 

a) how you complied with section 61W(1) of the 1990 Act:
  • Details of how to contact the developer to be able to comment on the scheme or collaborate with the developer on its design.
  • Information on a timetable for the duration of the consultation. National legislative good practice suggests a minimum of 21 days for comments to be made. A longer timescale may be appropriate for larger and more complex applications.
  • Consult in a manner that brings the development to the attention of the majority of the persons who live in the vicinity.
    1. Writing to individual addresses.
    2. An advert in a local paper (in addition to and not instead of direct consultation).
    3. Include the relevant town or parish council.
  • Consider a range of methods for engaging people in the consultation, such as: 
    • a website providing information on the scheme and a facility to comment online. 
    • supplying householders with copies of the plans and supporting documents. 
    • depositing relevant documents in an appropriate local venue.
    • exhibitions in the local area.
  • Determine the extent of the consultation based on the proposal’s scale, location and relationship with others. Particularly local residents and public places. 
b) any responses to the consultation that were received by the applicant.
 
c) the account taken of those responses, including: 
  • details of consultation responses received.
  • how the you have addressed issues and concerns.  
  • whether, or in what way the proposed application was altered following consultation and prior to formal submission. 

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

Larger schemes can affect a greater number of people or whole communities. Often they do not learn about proposals that affect them until a planning application is made. The consultation period presents an opportunity for this to be addressed. It will enable the local community to get involved and help shape the proposal before a formal application is submitted. We need this to conform with our adopted Statement of Community Involvement. 

Required for
  • Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters for:
    • 200 or more new dwellings. 
    • 10,000 square metres or more non-residential floorspace.
    • two hectares or more site area.
Check it's valid
  • Make it clear on the front cover that a statement of consultations is included.
How to prepare this information

Your statement should: 
  1. show you have considered our Statement of Community Involvement.
  2. set out the responses received.
  3. explain how the concerns expressed have influenced the content of the application.
  4. show evidence of conforming to 'pre-application consultation'.
This outlines the findings of a professional inspection of the condition of a structure. Include details of necessary works required for conversion or development. Use it to demonstrate the capacity of the building for conversion or re-use. Including any structural alterations that may be required by the proposals.

Required for
  • Listed building consent for conversion of a listed building that involves:
    • structural alteration of supporting members.
    • demolition of supporting members.
Supporting members of a building or structure can include:
  • load bearing internal or external walls.
  • columns, beams or girders.
  • floor or roof joists.
  • staircases.
Check it's valid
  • Make it clear on the front cover that a structural survey is included.
How to prepare this information

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

This should explain how you plan to manage onsite water runoff at your site. It should give preference to sustainable drainage systems (SuDS). SuDS control surface water run off close to where it falls. They help ensure surface flooding is not increased, both at your site and in the surrounding area. They also contribute to biodiversity net gain targets.

Required for

  • Full and Outline planning permission for:
    • all major applications.

Check it's valid

  • Check your strategy was produced in the last 3 years or include an up-to-date addendum.
  • Make it clear on the front cover that a surface water drainage strategy is included.

How to prepare this information

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

We use this to assess the impact of your proposal on the vitality and viability of existing centres. This is achieved through an impact assessment or sequential assessment, depending on your proposal.  

View town centre boundaries and primary shopping areas on our constraints map

An impact assessment is required for
  • Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters for:
    • 1000 m2 or more of gross retail floorspace proposed outside of town centre boundaries. This only applies to Amble, Bedlington, Haltwhistle, Ponteland and Prudhoe.
    • 1000 m2 or more of gross retail floorspace proposed outside of primary shopping area boundaries. This only applies to Alnwick, Ashington, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Blyth, Cramlington, Morpeth and Hexham.
    • 2500 m2 or more of gross retail floorspace proposed outside of town centre boundaries. This only applies to Morpeth.
    • 2500 m2 or more of gross leisure-related floorspace proposed outside of town centre boundaries.
A sequential assessment is required for
  • Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters for main town centre uses of:
    • 1000 m2 or more external floor area proposed outside of a designated town centre or primary shopping area.
    • 1 ha or more site area proposed outside of a designated town centre or primary shopping area.
Main town centre uses include:
  • retail (such as warehouse clubs and factory outlet centres).
  • leisure, entertainment and more intensive sport and recreation uses (such as cinemas, restaurants, drive-through restaurants, bars, pubs, night-clubs, casinos, health and fitness centres, indoor bowling centres, and bingo halls).
  • offices.
  • arts, culture, and tourism development (such as theatres, museums, galleries, concert halls, hotels, and conference facilities).
Check it's valid
  • Make it clear on the front cover that an impact or sequential assessment is included.
How to prepare this information
  • See National Planning Policy Framework, chapter 7. 
  • It should comply with the National Planning Practice Guidance – Town centres and retail section.
  • The test will be specific to your proposal. It should be carried out in parallel with the application.
  • Read the Northumberland Local Plan. See policies TCS 1, TCS 2 and TCS 4. We must consider this when we make a decision on your application.
  • Failure to undertake an appropriate assessment could mean we refuse permission.
  • We advise you to appoint a professional to produce your assessment.
  • Gross retail floorspace proposed is net retail plus areas used for storage and any staff or office areas that are clearly connected with the shop or store.
The transport implications of the development must be assessed as part of your planning application. This is achieved through Transport Assessments (TA), Transport Statements (TS) and Travel Plans (TP). These are all ways of assessing, reducing or removing the negative transport impacts of development. The aim is to promote sustainable development. They are required for developments which generate significant amounts of movements.

Required for
  • Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters for proposals that meet the thresholds shown in the table below. This applies to:
    • new development. 
    • changes of use.
    • extensions to existing buildings.
Use the table below to work out which document you must submit.
Threshold Table - When are TSs, TAs and TPs required?
Use class and type of development proposed Transport Statement required for Transport Assessment or Travel Plan required for
B2 (General Industrial) 
General industry (other than classified as in B1), The former ‘special industrial’ use classes, B3 – B7, are now all encompassed in the B2 use class. 		 2500 to 4000 m2 floor area. Over 4000 m2 floor area.
B8 (Storage or Distribution) 
Storage or distribution centres – wholesale warehouses, distribution centres and repositories.		 3000 to 5000 m2 floor area. Over 5000 m2 floor area.
C1 (Hotels)
Hotels, boarding houses and guest houses, development falls within this class if ‘no significant element of care is provided’.		 75 to 100 bedrooms. Over 100 bedrooms.
C2 (Residential Institutions - Hospitals, Nursing Homes)
Used for the provision of residential accommodation and care to people in need of care.		 30 to 50 beds. Over 50 beds.
C2 (Residential Institutions - Residential Education)
Boarding schools and training centres.		 50 to 150 students. Over 150 students.
C2 (Residential Institutions – Institutional Hostel)
Homeless shelters, accommodation for people with learning difficulties and people on probation.		 250 to 400 residents. Over 400 residents
C3 (Dwelling Houses)
Dwellings for individuals, families or not more than six people living together as a single household. Not more than six people living together includes – students or young people sharing a dwelling and small group homes for disabled or handicapped people living together in the community.		 50 to 80 dwellings. Over 80 dwellings.
Any other use class or development Applicant or agent to consult with highways authority. We cannot identify this at validation. Applicant or agent to consult with highways authority. We cannot identify this at validation.



Check it's valid
  • Check your assessment was produced in the last 3 years or include an up-to-date addendum.
  • Make it clear on the front cover that the relevant document is included.
How to prepare this information Read the planning policy before preparing this information

Make sure your documents align with the NPPF, Local Plan and Neighbourhood plan policies. We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.
Trees are vulnerable to damage during construction. This can be from root or impact damage from construction traffic and equipment. Or through soil compaction or smothering caused by adding soil to the existing surface. We use this to ensure retained trees are not harmed by development. Also to check you are leaving enough space to enable the trees to grow, without detriment to the future occupiers of the development.

Required for
  • Tree works applications.
  • Householder planning permission where (as indicated on ‘Trees and Hedges’ section of the 1APP application form):
    • trees will need to be removed or pruned and they are a protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO).
    • trees will need to be removed or pruned and they are in a conservation area.
  • Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters for:
    • minor applications where trees will need to be removed or pruned and they are a protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO).
    • minor applications where trees will need to be removed or pruned and they are in a conservation area.
Check if you are in a conservation area on our constraints map

Check it's valid
  • Check your plan was produced in the last 12 months.
  • Clearly identify on the plan which trees are to be removed or pruned.
  • The information can be shown on your site plans or as a separate plan.
  • Draw the plan to a suitable scale, state the scale on the document. (A scale is not required for tree works applications).
How to prepare this information

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

Trees are vulnerable to damage during construction. This can be from root or impact damage from construction traffic and equipment. Or through soil compaction or smothering caused by adding soil to the existing surface. Your report should summarise the findings of any tree survey carried out on the site. We use this to ensure retained trees are not harmed by development.

Required for
  • Tree works application for trees subject to a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) where:
    • you have ticked 'yes' on the application form to the question about the condition of the tree(s) or alleged damage to property from subsidence.
  • Householder planning permission where:
    • trees will need to be removed or pruned and they are a protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO).
  • Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters for:
    • minor applications where trees will need to be removed or pruned and they are a protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO).
    • major applications where the site includes trees (protected or not).
​Check it's valid
  • Check your report was produced in the last 12 months or include an up-to-date addendum.
  • Make it clear on the front cover that a tree report is included.
How to prepare this information

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

You must ensure ventilation and extraction has been implemented in a safe and appropriate way. We need this in order to protect residential amenity.

Required for
  • Full planning permission and Approval of reserved matters for:
    • proposals that require ventilation or extraction systems. Such as hot food takeaway, restaurant uses, and launderettes.
Check it's valid
  • Make it clear on the front cover that ventilation and extraction details are included.
  • Check the details have been produced in the last 12 months or include an up-to-date addendum.
How to prepare this information
  • Provide the following information:
    • details of the position and design of ventilation and extraction equipment.
    • a technical specification with an acoustic assessment of the extraction system. Including noise mitigation measures and odour abatement techniques where required.  
  • Refer to EMAQ Control of Odour and Noise from Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Systems.
  • Make sure you also provide existing and proposed elevation drawings in line with Note 8. These should show the size, location and external appearance of plant and equipment.

Read the planning policy before preparing this information

We must consider this when we make a decision so we advise you to read it.

We have explained in our local requirements list what we need for most applications. Yet, we cannot assess everything at validation. This means we may request documents after we make your application valid. The Case Officer will inform you if they need these once they have reviewed your proposal. Or if they have received comments from consultees. This could be documents from the list above. Or it can include (but is not limited to):

  • ​Daylight and Sunlight Assessment.
  • Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment.
  • Phase 2 Site Investigation Report. Also known as an Intrusive Site Investigation.

Major development and other schemes can have significant impacts on the surrounding area. We encourage you to use our pre-application service. Find out what we need to understand the impacts of your proposal. Avoid unnecessary work, invalid applications or delays.

After you apply

Once we've received your application our Validation Team will check it within 7 working days and email you. Please check emails (and your spam folder) regularly to avoid delay.

Invalid applications

We'll send you an 'invalid' letter if information is missing or incorrect. This will delay your application as the timescale for a decision only starts from the valid date.
  • You'll have 21 days to correct an application with 3 errors or less. After this time we'll close the application
  • We'll automatically close and refund your application if it has 4 or more errors. You'll need to gather the correct information and submit a new application if you wish to continue.
Valid applications

We'll send you an acknowledgement letter when your application is complete, 'valid'. 
  • A planning case officer will be assigned within 10 working days from the valid date.
  • A target date for the decision will be shown on the letter.
  • If a site visit or further information is needed the case officer will be in touch.
Find out what happens to your application next, read about the planning application process.

Let us know what you think

Click here to let us know if you found the content of the page helpful