Planning Applications vs. Buckinghamshire Council Local Plan | Understanding the Impact on Your Application

The Buckinghamshire Council Local Plan Strategy has played a pivotal role in shaping the development and preservation of the county. For homeowners and developers, understanding its implications is key to a successful planning application.

What is the Buckinghamshire Council Local Plan Strategy?

The Local Plan Strategy, a key document created by the Buckinghamshire Council, outlines the spatial vision, strategic priorities, and policy direction for development within the county. This long-term strategy identifies where development should and should not happen, ensuring a sustainable and harmonious growth pattern.

Read the Buckinghamshire Council Local Plan here.

Key Areas of Impact

1. Housing Allocations: The Local Plan has allocated specific sites for residential development. This helps homeowners understand where new homes can be built and the scale of permissible development.
2. Preservation of Historic Sites: Buckinghamshire boasts numerous heritage assets. The Local Plan outlines strategies to protect these invaluable assets, which can influence planning applications around these areas.
3. Infrastructure Growth: Planning isn’t just about buildings. The Plan also focuses on improving infrastructure, which can influence applications related to roads, public transport hubs, and utilities.
4. Green Belt and Open Spaces: One of the main highlights of Buckinghamshire is its green spaces. The Local Plan places special emphasis on preserving these, meaning applications that may adversely impact these areas are likely to face challenges.
5. Economic Growth Areas: For homeowners looking to convert or build commercial properties, the Plan identifies key areas slated for economic growth.

How to Align Your Planning Application with the Local Plan

1. Research: Familiarise yourself with the specific policies related to your type of project. Check the Council's online map to see any designations or restrictions on your property or nearby areas.
2. Consultation: Consider a pre-application consultation. This provides an opportunity to discuss your proposal with planning officers, gaining insights on how the Local Plan might affect it.
3. Professional Advice: Engaging with a local architect or planning consultant can offer valuable insights, as they're often well-versed in local policy nuances.

Find out more about Buckinghamshire Council Pre-application Advice here.

Conclusion

The Buckinghamshire Council Local Plan Strategy is more than just a policy document; it's a vision for the county's future. By understanding and aligning with it, homeowners can ensure their planning applications not only stand a better chance of approval but also contribute positively to Buckinghamshire's landscape and community.

‍