Elmbridge Planning – changes to the Local Validation Checklist

Changes to the Local Validation Checklist have been approved by Elmbridge Borough Council. These updates, which include new requirements related the Elmbridge Design Code and Biodiversity Net Gain, aim to improve the planning application process and ensure compliance with national and local policies.

Key changes

1. Design Code compliance: Applicants must now submit a Design Code Checklist with relevant applications, explaining how their proposals align with the council's Design Code Supplementary Planning Document adopted in April 2024.

2. Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG): In line with the Environment Act 2021, all applicable planning permissions must deliver at least 10% biodiversity net gain. This requirement is effective from February 12, 2024, for major developments and April 2, 2024, for smaller sites.  Applicants must provide additional information with their application to ensure a thorough assessment can be made at the application stage.

3. 3D visualisations: we are also encouraging the submission of 3D visualisations for developments of 10 dwellings or more, or buildings of 4 storeys or higher, to enhance public engagement and informed decision-making.

The updated checklist, last revised in 2021, is designed to improve the quality of application submissions, reducing the need for additional information requests and expediting the validation process. The checklist provides a comprehensive overview of application types and the necessary national and local requirements, ensuring that applicants can submit well-prepared proposals.

Our commitment to maintaining high standards in planning applications is reflected in these updates, which are expected to facilitate more efficient and transparent planning processes.

These changes will take effect on applications submitted from January 2025.