Outline Planning Permission Vs. Full Planning Permission
Outline Planning Permission Vs. Full Planning Permission
In the process of obtaining planning permission for a development project, there are two main options to consider: outline planning permission and full planning permission. Understanding the difference between these two types of permissions is crucial in determining the best approach for your project.
Outline planning permission serves as an initial application to assess the overall feasibility of a development proposal. It provides an indication to the local planning authority whether the project is acceptable.
This type of permission is commonly used for larger projects, allowing developers to evaluate the project’s proportions, impact on the surroundings, and access before committing significant resources. Once outline planning permission is granted, a reserved matters application is submitted to provide further details on various aspects of the project.
On the other hand, full planning permission involves submitting a comprehensive application that includes exhaustive details on every aspect of the development. It covers elements such as access, parking, use, layout, dimensions, elevations, drainage, and orientation.
Full planning permission offers clarity and certainty, as the project is approved for implementation as planned, eliminating the need for further applications or phases.
Both types of permissions come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to carefully consider the pros and cons of each option, as well as the specific requirements of your project, before deciding which route to take.
Table of comparison:
| Aspect | Outline Planning Permission | Full Planning Permission |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Initial permission in principle without detailed design specifics. | Detailed permission including specific design and construction details. |
| Scope | Establishes the general principles of development. | Approves detailed plans and specifications for the entire project. |
| Information Required | Requires a site plan and a description of the proposed development. | Requires comprehensive plans, elevations, materials, and landscaping details. |
| Decision Timeframe | Generally quicker decision process. | May take longer due to the detailed review of plans and specifications. |
| Flexibility | Provides flexibility for later detailed design decisions. | Less flexibility as specific details are decided at the approval stage. |
| Risk | Higher risk of changes during detailed design, potentially requiring modifications. | Lower risk, as detailed plans are approved from the beginning. |
| Stages of Approval | Initial approval, followed by submission of detailed plans for approval. | Single-stage approval after detailed plans are submitted. |
| Common Use | Common for large developments or when detailed plans are not yet finalized. | Common for smaller projects or when detailed plans are ready. |
| Typical Projects | Residential developments, large commercial projects. | Individual houses, small residential or commercial developments. |
| Key Considerations | Establishes the principle of development, allowing for adjustments later. | Requires comprehensive, well-defined plans to secure approval. |
| Risk of Rejection | Lower risk of rejection at the outline stage. | Higher risk if detailed plans do not meet planning requirements. |
| Approval Conditions | Often subject to conditions requiring further detail at a later stage. | Conditions may be related to the approved plans and specifications. |
To help you navigate the planning permission process, here are the key takeaways:
Key Takeaways:
- Outline planning permission provides an initial indication of whether a development proposal is acceptable.
- Full planning permission offers clarity and certainty for the implementation of the project as planned.
- Outline planning permission allows flexibility for developers to modify plans after the initial approval.
- Full planning permission eliminates the need for further applications or phases, saving time and cost.
- Consider the specifics of your project and consult with professionals to determine the most appropriate planning permission route.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Outline Planning Permission
When it comes to the planning permission process, outline planning permission offers several advantages. One of the key benefits is its ability to establish the principle of development before committing extensive resources.
This is particularly useful for developers seeking funding, as it provides clarity and certainty regarding the feasibility of the project. By obtaining outline planning permission, developers can identify potential issues or concerns early on and address them in the reserved matters application.
Another advantage of outline planning permission is its flexibility for future modifications. Land with partial planning permission can be more attractive to potential buyers, as they have the opportunity to modify the plans according to their specific needs or preferences. This can be an advantage for developers looking to sell their land or project.
However, there are also disadvantages to outline planning permission. One notable drawback is the additional time and cost it adds to the overall process. After obtaining outline planning permission, a reserved matters application is required, which involves providing further details on aspects such as external appearance, access and parking, landscaping, and more.
This additional step can prolong the planning process, delaying the start of the development. Furthermore, there is a degree of uncertainty associated with outline planning permission, as the specifics of the development are not finalized at this stage.
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Benefits of Full Planning Permission
When it comes to obtaining planning permission for your development project, full planning permission offers numerous advantages and benefits. Unlike outline planning permission, full planning permission provides clarity and certainty, as it approves the project for implementation as planned.
By submitting a comprehensive application that includes exhaustive details on all aspects of the development, such as access, parking, layout, and dimensions, you eliminate the need for further applications or phases. This not only saves time but also reduces costs in the long run.
Full planning permission is particularly beneficial for developments that closely resemble existing buildings in terms of scale, materials, and size, and where the principle of development is unlikely to be a problem. However, it’s important to note that obtaining full planning permission does not guarantee approval. Your application still needs to comply with the National Planning Policy Framework and any specific requirements set by the local planning authority.
The full planning permission process typically takes between 6 to 9 months, depending on the complexity of the case and the local planning authority’s processes. To increase your chances of success, you may consider seeking pre-application advice from the council, although it does not guarantee approval.
FAQ
What is the difference between outline planning permission and full planning permission?
Outline planning permission is an initial application that provides an indication of whether a development proposal is acceptable to the local planning authority. It focuses on the overall proportions, access, and impact on the surroundings. Full planning permission, on the other hand, involves submitting a comprehensive application that provides exhaustive details on all aspects of the development.
When should I use outline planning permission?
Outline planning permission is commonly used for larger projects to assess the overall feasibility of the project before committing significant resources. It allows developers to establish the principle of development and provides flexibility for future modifications.
When should I use full planning permission?
Full planning permission is best suited for developments that are similar to existing buildings in scale, materials, and size, where the principle of development is unlikely to be a problem. It offers clarity and certainty, as the project is approved for implementation as planned.
What are the advantages of outline planning permission?
Outline planning permission allows developers to establish the principle of development before committing extensive resources. It provides clarity and certainty for funding purposes and enables identification of potential issues early on.
What are the disadvantages of outline planning permission?
Outline planning permission requires an additional reserved matters application, adding time and cost to the process. It introduces the risk of further conditions or objections during the reserved matters stage and does not provide the same level of certainty as full planning permission.
What are the benefits of full planning permission?
Full planning permission offers clarity and certainty, as the project is approved for implementation as planned. It eliminates the need for further applications or phases, saving time and cost in the long run.