In 2005, the Government informed local authorities in England its intention to introduce a series of standardized planning forms to be known as 1APP. The use of the 1APP forms will become mandatory from the 6 April 2008 when they becoming the only format in which applications may be made. Those that are submitted on any old style forms after the launch date can not be accepted by a local authority as a valid application.
The benefits
At present, most authorities produce their own planning application forms which differ in style, content and the information requested. These inconsistency sometimes lead to confusion for planning authorities, planning professionals and the public alike.
The 1APP Form is part of the Governments commitment to make the planning system simpler, faster and easier to use. As well as speeding up the planning process, the introduction of the form will also enable more planning services to be provided online and give applicants certainty about the information they need to provide.
Benefits for planning professional and members of the public
If you submit multiple applications you will benefit from a familiar form with identical layout and standard questions. It will also enable the entry of repetitive information such as your address and contact details. It will also provide clear online guidance where and when you need it during the application process and greatly improve the prospect of submitting a valid application at the first attempt.
How will it work?
The Standard Planning Application Form in the full electronic format is available on the Planning Portal website. Once logged onto the website, the applicant/agent is asked a series of questions to help determine the correct application form to complete. Then the form specific to the proposal will be generated.
The Standard Planning Application Form will cover a range of application types including Householder, Planning Permission, Listed Building consent, Conservation Area consent, Tree Applications (inc. Tree Preservation Orders and Trees in Conservation Areas) and Advertisement consent. Along with the electronic planning application form, supporting plans and documents may also submitted electronically as part of the online application process.
Will I still be able to submit an application on paper?
Paper copies of the new series of application forms will still be available to potential applicants after 6 April 2008. It has been recognised that some will still prefer to submit paper versions but they must be made on the new style forms.
For further information please see the Planning Portal website (external link).