Introduction to the Standard Planning Application Form (1APP)

Background

In 2005, the Government communicated with local authorities in England its intention to introduce the Standard Planning Application Form (1APP).  This form is key to specific proposals to streamline and simplify the arrangements for handling applications for planning permission and associated consents.

The Standard Planning Application Form will be rolled out across England under direct management from the Government in conjunction with the Planning Portal (external link) (a one-stop-shop for planning information and services online).

From 1 April 2008, the Standard Planning Application Form will become the only official method of submitting a planning application and is expected to lead to a significant increase in the number of applications submitted online.  Applications submitted on existing/old style forms after this mandatory deadline set by Central Government cannot be accepted by the local authority.

Benefits

At present, most authorities produce their own planning application forms which can differ in style, content and the information which is required.  This inconsistency can sometimes lead to confusion for planning professionals and the public alike. 

The Standard Planning Application Form is part of 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.

How will it work?

The Standard Planning Application Form is an electronic application form hosted by the Planning Portal (or through an authority's own website).  Once logged onto the website, the applicant or agent is asked a series of questions to help determine which application form to complete.  A detailed form specific to the proposal will be generated once this procedure is completed.

The Standard Planning Application Form will cover a range of application types including Householder, Planning Permission, Listed Building Consent, Conservation Area consent, Tree Applications (including Tree Preservation Orders and Trees in Conservation Areas) and Advertisement consent.  Along with the electronic planning application form, supporting plans and documents are also submitted electronically as part of the online application process.

Will I still be able to obtain a paper copy of an application form?

Paper copies of most common types of application forms will still be available to potential applicants after 1 October 2007.  Not all planning applications will have to be submitted electronically after this date, as it is recognised that many applicants will still prefer to submit paper versions.

Over the coming months this authority will be looking into convenient methods of producing paper copies of the Standard Planning Application Form.

Where can I find out more information?

This web page will be updated on a regular basis and you can also find further information on the Planning Portal website (external link) and the Department for Communities and Local Government (external link) website.