Project workflow for taking a site from identification to planning submission.
Phase 1: Site Due Diligence
Objective: Confirm site is viable before committing resources.- Complete 01 Feasibility Stages checklist
- Request from client:
- [ ] Title deed boundary
- [ ] Housing need / unit count target
- Initial flood/access/privacy checks
- Decision gate: Proceed to surveys?
Phase 2: Desktop Surveys
Objective: Understand site constraints from desk-based research.- Commission LSBUD search (free, required first step)
- Commission comprehensive utilities search (Landmark or Groundsure)
- Request LPA-specific information:
- [ ] Conservation Area / Article 4 / TPO status
- Review desktop findings
- Decision gate: Proceed to physical surveys?
Phase 3: Physical Surveys
Objective: Accurate site data for design and submission.- Commission topographical survey (DWG format)
- Commission site investigation if required (borehole, trial pits)
- Confirm title boundary against survey
- Identify discrepancies between legal boundary and physical conditions
- Decision gate: Site confirmed viable for target unit count?
Phase 4: Pre-Application
Objective: Confirm requirements and build LPA relationship.- Prepare pre-app submission (sketch scheme + key questions)
- Book pre-app meeting or submit written enquiry
- Cover topics from 04 Pre App Strategy
- Document LPA responses in Appendix B Lpa Variations
- Decision gate: Clear route to approval identified?
Phase 5: Design Development
Objective: Prepare submission-ready drawings and documents.- Finalise site layout (respecting pre-app feedback)
- Prepare drawings:
- [ ] Site/block plan (1:200 or 1:500)
- [ ] Floor plans — existing & proposed (1:50 or 1:100)
- [ ] Elevations — existing & proposed (1:50 or 1:100)
- Complete BNG assessment (Small Sites Metric)
- Draft Design & Access Statement
- Compile conditional documents per 03 Submission Requirements
Phase 6: Submission
Objective: Valid application submitted.- Complete Planning Portal application form
- Upload all documents
- Complete ownership certificates
- Complete CIL form / exemption statement
- Calculate and pay fee
- Submit application
- Confirm: Validation acknowledgement received
Phase 7: Determination
Objective: Achieve planning permission.- Establish case officer contact
- Monitor consultation responses
- Respond promptly to additional information requests
- Track 8-week determination deadline
- Outcome: Decision notice received
Post-Permission (Out of Scope)
The following are outside this guidance but will be needed:
- Discharge of pre-commencement conditions
- Building control application
- Construction phase management
Cross-References
- 01 Feasibility Stages — Detailed stage breakdown
- 02 Site Information — What to procure
- 03 Submission Requirements — Documentation checklist
- 04 Pre App Strategy — Pre-app discussion points