Planning Portal Buckinghamshire Applying for Planning Permission
The Planning Portal, Buckinghamshire, is an online access tool for project developers to submit, manage and track planning applications. As the protection of biodiversity and habitats has become a priority for local authorities when authorising planning applications, the portal ensures that developers address any ecological requirements when applying for plannig permission.
At Collington Winter Environmental, we support developers in meeting ecological requirements. Our team can provide provisional recommendations, such as protected species surveys and a suitable Biodiversity Net Gain proposal to enable a smooth and successful project.
For more information on specific local requirements, visit the planning portal, Buckinghamshire, here.
The Planning Portal, Buckinghamshire Process
When applying for planning permission through the Buckinghamshire Planning Portal, following the steps below can encourage the success of your application.
Preparing the application
Prepare necessary documents, including:
- Application forms (available on the portal).
- Detailed site plans and drawings (e.g. elevations, floor plans).
- Supporting statements, such as a Design and Access Statement, ecological reports, or heritage assessments (if applicable).
- The Biodiversity Net Gain proposal (which must provide a minimum of 10% improvement to the local area).
Submitting the application
- Complete the online planning application, including project details.
- Include all required plans, including any supporting information.
Consultation
- Once validated, the council will publicise the application with notices and inform any nearby properties.
- Relevant stakeholders, including neighbours and statutory bodies, will be invited to provide feedback.
Assessment
- Planning officers will review your application, factoring in local planning policies, environmental impacts, and public feedback.
- If necessary, the proposal may need modification to address specific concerns.
- Ecological issues will be considered; unless accepted as proposed, you may need to modify/update your BNG proposal. Questions may be raised as to the proposed modifications in place for any protected species on the development. In this case, we can assist with any necessary changes and progress your application.
Decision making
- For straightforward applications, the planning office will make the decision.
- For larger or contentious projects, the application may be assessed by the planning committee for a decision.
- You will be notified of the decision in writing, as well as the application status update on the portal.
What ecological requirements are considered for the planning permission process?
When applying for planning permission on the Planning Portal, Buckinghamshire, ecological limitations should be considered. The most common ecological requirements include:
- Ecological Surveys: Submission of comprehensive ecological surveys and assessments identifying any protected plants and habitats on the proposed site.
- Protected Species Assessment: Assessment of whether any endangered animals, which may be legally protected, are present on or in the development site. Surveys for species such as bats, birds, amphibians, and reptiles may be required.
- Tree Surveys: The possibility of any damage to the health, structure, and stability of existing trees may need to be examined.
- Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG): Since February 2024, it has been mandatory that any local development improves the surrounding ecological habitat by at least 10%, either through the creation of new habitats or off-site units purchased to relocate and offset the creation of habitat.
- Landscape Surveys: For larger developments, the impact on the local landscape must be considered. Our in-house landscape architectural team regularly inspect and assess local proposed developments, ensuring they are in line with the requirements of the local area.
- Ecological Clerk of Works: At Collington Winter Environmental, we can provide an Ecological Clerk of Works to oversee any habitat mitigation or creation during any difficult aspects of development, ensuring minimal harm to any local protected species and that habitats are created with the correct specifications.
Planning Portal, Buckinghamshire: How can Collington Winter Environmental assist?
Collington Winter Environmental aims to deliver exceptional ecological guidance, meeting the needs of developers and ensuring a mutual benefit for stakeholders and any surrounding wildlife related to your development.
With any intended applications for development using the Planning Portal, Buckinghamshire, we can assist with providing all necessary ecological assessments and recommendations to support your planning application, alongside ensuring all environmental requirements are prioritised to comply with Buckinghamshire Council.
If you are interested in our services, contact us using the form below. Alternatively, contact us via email at info@collingtonwinter.co.uk or call one of our team on 01204 939608.
Contact Us
Registered Address
23 Bark Street East, 1st Floor, Bolton, BL1 2BQ
Cambridge Office
Future Business Centre, Cambridge Campus, Kings Hedges Road, Cambridge, CB4 2HY
Leicester Office
Rutland House, 23-25 Friar Lane, Leicester, LE1 5QQ
Bristol Office
Newminster House, 27-29 Baldwin Street, Bristol, BS1 1LT
Telephone
Head Office: 01204 939 608
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