Planning application process improved to help tackle the climate emergency and plan for a greener future
The planning application process has been updated by the West Oxfordshire District Council to ensure any new applications better consider the local environment and biodiversity of their area; while also making the process more user-friendly for residents.
Cabinet member for planning and sustainable development, Councillor Carl Rylett, said:
“This change will make planning applications more positive for both the environment and residents. Through it, applicants will have a better experience submitting applications, with a higher likelihood of them being validated first time.”
“They also help us take another step in our fight against the climate emergency, as applicants will have to consider impacts on the local environment more in their applications. This includes everything from small applications all the way through to large housing developments.”
“In any new development it is important that the impact on the local environment and wildlife is considered. As we face the climate emergency head-on it’s absolutely essential that these things are protected. By making these changes we are making another positive move towards a more sustainable future for our district.”
The changes, which came into effect on the 1st of February, impact the Validation Checklists; which outline the information required by applicants so that their planning submission can be considered ‘valid’ by the council. There are various documents that are required by law to accompany a planning application; so ensuring these checklists are as clear as possible is vital.
A review showed that some 40% of applications were not validated because of missing or inadequate information. Therefore, by changing these checklists it’s hoped applicants will be more successful in their provision of the correct information, saving them time and resources.
In addition to this, there’ll also be new requirements implemented that mean applications will have to consider the impact they are having on local biodiversity and the environment. Meaning, aspects such as sewage disposal and air quality will now need to be assessed. This aims to bring the process in line with the council's commitment to tackling the climate emergency.
We anticipate that applications will come to us with correct supporting documents, however, we will advise and guide applicants during a short period of transition, as the new validation checklists become more familiar.
The updated validation lists and all planning related information can be found on our website here - https://www.westoxon.gov.uk/validationchecklists