Planning Portal Norfolk: Applying for Planning Permission
The Planning Portal, Norfolk, is an online platform for project developers to submit, manage and track planning applications. The portal also provides public access, welcoming county-wide commenting on an application. 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 needed to gain permission.
At Collington Winter Environmental, we support developers in considering the environmental impact that a project may have. Our team can provide provisional recommendations and services, 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 and a current list of applications, visit the planning portal, Norfolk County Council, here.
The Planning Portal, Norfolk Application Process
When you apply for planning permission through the Norfolk Planning Portal, there are typical steps involved.
Preparing the application
Gather the necessary documents, including:
- Application forms (available on the portal).
- Site planning documents 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 show at least a 10% improvement in the local area.
Submitting the application
- Complete the online planning application, outlining the project details.
- Include all required plans, including any supporting information.
Consultation
- Once deemed valid, the Council will publicise the application with notices and inform any nearby properties.
- The Council will invite relevant stakeholders, including neighbours and statutory bodies, to give 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 impact will be considered; unless accepted as proposed, you may need to modify/update your BNG proposal.
Decision making
- For straightforward applications, planning officers will make the decision.
- For larger or contentious projects, the planning committee may assess the application to make a decision.
- You will receive a written notification of the decision, as well as an 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, Norfolk, 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): It is 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: Our landscape team checks local development plans. We make sure they meet the area’s requirements.
- 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 habitats are created with the correct specifications.
Planning Portal, Norfolk: How can Collington Winter Environmental assist?
The team at Collington Winter Environmental aims to provide helpful ecological guidance, meet the needs of developers, and ensure a mutual benefit for both stakeholders and any surrounding wildlife.
With any intended applications for development using the Planning Portal, Norfolk, 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 Norfolk County 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
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23 Bark Street East, 1st Floor, Bolton, BL1 2BQ
Cambridge Office
Future Business Centre, Cambridge Campus, Kings Hedges Road, Cambridge, CB4 2HY
Telephone
Head Office: 01204 939 608
Dumfries Office: 01387 378208
