Pre-application process for planning applications

This consultation forms part of a light touch review of the 6 guidance documents underpinning the Planning Act 2008, which includes guidance on the pre-application process as well as on:

• examinations
• fees
• associated development
• application forms
• compulsory acquisitions

The pre-application guidance merges and expands reworked versions of 2 separate previous guidance notes on pre-application consultation and guidance for local authorities. By merging these documents, we are avoiding unnecessary repetition of the description of common processes. The guidance sets out the necessary requirements and procedures and gives clarity on the scope and scale of the consultation required at the pre-application stage.

The final guidance was published on 10 January 2013.