Town & Country Planning Act 1990, no. 8 (as amended)

The Town and Country Planning Act 1990 is a pivotal piece of legislation in the United Kingdom that governs land use and development. Its primary purpose is to provide a comprehensive framework for controlling the use of land and regulating various aspects of urban and rural development.

The Act aims to promote sustainable development, facilitate the efficient use of land, and protect the environment. It sets out the legal framework for planning authorities to manage land use, control building operations, and ensure that developments are in the public interest.

Requirements:

1. Development Plans: The Act mandates local planning authorities to formulate and adopt development plans, which outline policies and proposals for land use within their jurisdiction. These plans guide decisions on planning applications.
2. Planning Permission: It establishes a system where planning permission must be obtained from the relevant local planning authority for certain types of development. This includes new construction, alterations, and changes of use for land and buildings.
3. Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings: The Act provides for the designation and protection of conservation areas and listed buildings, which have special historic or architectural significance. Special consent is required for alterations or demolition within these areas.
4. Enforcement: It grants local authorities powers to enforce planning regulations, allowing them to take action against unauthorized developments or breaches of planning permission conditions.
5. Compulsory Purchase: The Act provides provisions for local authorities to acquire land through compulsory purchase orders for public purposes, such as infrastructure development.

The Town and Country Planning Act 1990 applies across the whole of the United Kingdom, affecting all types of land and properties. It is relevant to property owners, developers, local planning authorities, and anyone involved in the planning process.

In summary, the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 serves as the cornerstone of planning law in the UK. It establishes the legal framework for land use, development, and conservation, ensuring that urban and rural spaces are developed in a manner that serves the public interest and preserves the environment.

The Town and Country Planning Act 1990 sets out specific requirements for evidence in the context of planning applications and appeals. Here is a summary of the key evidence requirements:

1. Site Plans and Elevations: Detailed drawings showing the layout, dimensions, and design of the proposed development.
2. These plans should include elevations (views of the building from different sides) and site plans (showing the location and boundaries of the site).
3. Design and Access Statement: A written document accompanying planning applications for major developments, outlining the design principles and access arrangements; and This statement explains how the design of the development relates to local planning policies and addresses accessibility concerns.
4. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): For certain types of projects with potentially significant environmental effects, an EIA is required. This involves a comprehensive assessment of the likely impacts on the environment; and The assessment includes information on alternatives considered, the likely significant effects, and proposed mitigation measures.
5. Transport Assessment: Provides information on the impact of the development on transportation networks, including traffic generation, parking provisions, and access to public transport.
6. Heritage Statements: Required for developments affecting listed buildings or structures within conservation areas; and Provides an assessment of the heritage significance and impact of the proposed development, along with proposed measures for preservation.
7. ‍Ecological Surveys and Reports: Necessary for developments that could affect wildlife or natural habitats; and Includes surveys to identify species and habitats, as well as recommendations for mitigating potential impacts.
8. Flood Risk Assessment: Required for developments in flood-prone areas. It assesses the risk of flooding and proposes measures to manage this risk.
9. Noise Impact Assessment: Provides an evaluation of potential noise impacts from the development on its surroundings. This is crucial for projects near noise-sensitive areas.
10. Visual Impact Assessment: Applicable for developments where visual aspects are significant, such as large-scale infrastructure projects or those in areas of outstanding natural beauty.
11. Community Engagement and Consultation: Evidence of consultation with the local community, including feedback received and any adjustments made to the proposal in response.

It's important to note that the specific evidence requirements can vary depending on the type and scale of the proposed development, as well as local planning policies. Applicants are typically advised to consult with the relevant local planning authority for precise guidance on the evidence needed for their particular project.