Views are being sought on a new Local Validation Checklist covering the Somerset Council area.

Local Validation Checklists (LVCs) help inform applicants and agents about the type of documents and level of information required to be submitted in order for the Council to validate a planning application and/or other consents.

Each of the former councils which make up Somerset Council had an adopted LVC reflecting the Local Plans for their area.

Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) are required to maintain an up to date LVC and review it every 2 years.

This will be the first LVC for the Somerset Council area and where necessary it includes specific requirements from the former LPA’s adopted Local Plans while a new Local Plan for Somerset is being prepared.

Cllr Mike Rigby, Lead Member for Economic Development, Planning and Assets, said:

We are committed to providing a professional and efficient service for all potential applicants and agents.

The LVC will help them to prepare their submissions and ensure they can be validated and determined as swiftly as possible. I would urge all interested parties and members of the public to share their views with us.

The consultation runs for 6 weeks from 11 November to 23 December 2024 and can be found by visiting the Council’s Local validation checklist consultation page.

The Council will consider all comments on the draft LVC which may be amended to take account of comments, observations and updates that assist with the content and clarity of the document.

The proposed final version will be considered before a decision is taken to adopt the new LVC in 2025.