Balham Planning Portal: Applying for Planning Permission
The Balham planning portal serves as the official platform for submitting and managing planning applications across the district. It provides a central hub where applicants can monitor the progress of their submissions and access, view, or comment on other applications.
To ensure your development complies with the environmental standards set by Wandsworth Council, it is important to obtain professional ecological guidance. At Collington Winter, we offer expert ecological consultancy to support your project at every stage of the planning process.
All planning applications must be submitted through the official Balham Planning Portal.
Navigating the planning process in Balham
If your project requires planning permission, follow these key steps:
Prepare your application – Begin by gathering and completing all necessary documentation, including:
- Completed application forms (available via the planning portal)
- Accurate site plans and architectural drawings
- Supporting materials such as Design and Access Statements, ecological surveys, and heritage assessments
Submit your application
- Fill out the online application form with detailed information about your project
- Upload all required documents through the Balham planning portal
Public consultation
- Once your application is validated, it will be published on the portal
- Local residents and stakeholders will have the chance to review and comment on your proposal
Application review
- The council will assess your application in line with planning policies and public feedback
- You may be asked to make revisions, particularly in relation to ecological matters and Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG)
Decision notification
- Depending on your project’s complexity, a planning officer or committee will make the final decision
- You will be informed once your application is validated, and the outcome will be posted on the planning portal
Ecological requirements for planning applications
Ecology is a critical element of the planning process. Common ecological requirements include:
Ecological Surveys – These baseline surveys identify existing habitats, plant species, and ecological features within the site. They help determine the potential impact of development and inform necessary mitigation measures.
Protected Species Assessment – Many sites may host legally protected species such as bats, badgers, great crested newts, or nesting birds. Specialist assessments are required to detect their presence and implement measures to safeguard their habitats in compliance with wildlife legislation.
Tree surveys – Development proposals must assess the impact on existing trees both within and adjacent to the site. Tree surveys provide essential data on species, condition, and root protection areas, which inform site layout and design.
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) – BNG is a mandatory requirement under the Environment Act 2021. Developers must demonstrate at least a 10% measurable improvement in biodiversity, either through on-site habitat creation or approved off-site compensation schemes. A Biodiversity Metric is used to calculate the gains and losses.
Landscape Surveys – These surveys evaluate how a proposed development will affect the landscape character and visual amenity of the surrounding area. They often include recommendations for landscape enhancements that support ecological resilience.
Ecological Clerk of Works – Our qualified Ecological Clerks of Works provide on-site supervision during construction activities. They ensure all ecological conditions, mitigation measures, and BNG requirements are properly implemented, helping to maintain compliance and avoid costly delays or legal challenges.
How can Collington Winter assist?
Collington Winter offers bespoke ecological consultancy services to help meet the environmental and planning requirements set by local authorities. Our experienced Ecological Clerks of Works carry out thorough site assessments to support the success of your planning application.
To find out how we can assist with your planning application via the Balham planning portal, get in touch using our website form, call us on 01204 939608, or email info@collingtonwinter.co.uk.
Contact Us
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Telephone
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