Research into LPA take up of criteria for validating planning applications (from AMA Autumn Newsletter)
We are currently researching the positions of local authorities with regard to pre-planning and pre-verification requirements for biodiversity. Perhaps not surprisingly, initial results have shown a wide variation between authorities, with some requesting very limited initial data from developers, with others requesting a full suite of habitat and protected species work.
The results of our research will enable us to assess the type and level of biodiversity information required by authorities on a district-by-district basis; we will then be in a position to pass this information on to clients in order that they can gauge the appropriate level of survey commitment at an early stage and thereby minimise project delays and avoid unnecessary spending.