Planning Statements - What is it? What needs to be included? And how do I write one?

A planning statement is a document that explains why a proposed building or development project should be allowed by the local government. It describes how the project aligns with local and national policies and regulations, and how it will benefit the surrounding community. It also addresses any potential negative effects the project may have and how they will be mitigated. The planning statement is generally only required for larger or more contentious schemes and is submitted as part of a planning application, it is reviewed by the LPA as part of the planning process before they make a decision to approve or refuse the project.

Here are some steps you can take to create a planning statement:

1. Review the local and national planning policies: 

Before writing the planning statement, it is important to understand the relevant local and national planning policies, such as the Local Plan, the National Planning Policy Framework, and any other relevant guidance. This will assist in understanding the context of your proposal and the planning policies to be addressed in the  statement.

2. Understand the site and surrounding area: 

Conduct a site analysis to understand the history, current uses, and characteristics of the site and surrounding area. This will help to identify any planning constraints or opportunities that may affect the proposal.

3. Identify the objectives and benefits of the proposal: 

Clearly identify the objectives and benefits of the proposal, such as how it addresses housing, employment, transport, and environmental needs, and how it contributes to the overall sustainability and well-being of the area.

4. Address potential negative impacts: 

Identify and address any potential negative impacts of the proposal, such as on traffic, heritage, or the environment, and explain how they will be mitigated.

5. Use clear and concise language: 

Use clear and concise language, and include maps, plans, and illustrations to help explain the proposal.

6. Consult with relevant parties: 

Consult with relevant parties such as the local community, statutory consultees, and other agencies to gather their feedback and to ensure that your proposal addresses their needs and concerns.

7. Review and edit: 

Review and edit the planning statement to ensure that it is well-organised, clear, and easy to understand, and that it addresses all the relevant planning policies and the concerns of the local community.

8. Seek professional help: 

There are several professionals that can help with this process outlined below. 

Here are several professionals who can assist in creating a planning statement:

Architects: 

They have a good understanding of design, planning, and building regulations. They can create a planning statement that effectively demonstrates how your proposal complies with planning policies and how it will benefit the local area, or will recommend the appropriate consultant to assist in this. 

Planning consultants: 

Town planners or urban planners have expertise in land-use planning, zoning, and development regulations. They can assist in understanding the context of the proposal and the planning policies that should be addressed in the planning statement. .

Surveyors: 

They can have knowledge of land and property, and provide a comprehensive site analysis which will inform the planning statement and identify any planning constraints or opportunities that may affect your proposal.

Legal professionals: 

If facing a complex situation such as a planning appeal or a judicial review, it is likely that  legal professionals such as lawyers or barristers will be required to advise upon how best to navigate the legal process.

It is worth noting help can also be provided by local authorities themselves, many of them have planning departments that can provide guidance on the planning process and requirements for a planning statement.

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Keep in mind that each planning statement is unique, and that the specific requirements for a planning statement will vary depending on the local planning authority and the specific proposal. 

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