Somerset West and Taunton Council (SWT) is reviewing its Local Validation Checklist for planning applications and wants to hear your views.
Since 2008 local planning authorities have been required to publish a list of information they require to “validate” the planning applications they receive.
The validation checklist has two components – the National requirements including the application form, the fee and certificates; and specific local validation requirements known as the “Local List”.
The Government requires local planning authorities to review their Local List every two years. As such Somerset West and Taunton’s current validation requirements are undergoing a significant review to reflect changes in planning legislation, policy and guidance.
The main changes proposed are:
- Amendments to all sections to make the requirements clearer
- Updating the references to current legislation, guidance and standing advice
- Addition of new requirements to demonstrate compliance with the Habitat Regulation requirements in the Somerset Levels and Moors RAMSAR area.
The draft Local List is open for public consultation for a four week period running from Monday 8 March 2021 until Tuesday 6 April 2021.
After the consultation period, all comments received will be considered and amendments made as appropriate. Once approved this will replace the current Local Validation List and will form the basis on which planning applications are deemed valid by Somerset West and Taunton Council.
All current local validation requirements for the different types of applications can be found here: www.somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk/planning/validation-requirements/
The consultation can be found at: https://www.somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk/consultations/
You can also comment on the draft Local Validation List by email to: