Local List of Validation requirements for Planning Applications - July 2024
Residential Space Standards Statement: NDSS and M4(2) or M4(3)
Consultation on revised local list
At the Development Control Board May 14, 2026, Members resolved to approve a revised local list of validation requirements for the purposes of consultation.
Officers have reviewed the current local list and it is clear that all of the current requirements are still relevant. However, a further review of the requirements has identified the need for the following key changes:
- Inclusion of scale bar on all plans (a notable omission from the National Requirements to date although it has always been on the guidance note for applicants);
- Topographical and/or existing and proposed land level plans showing relevant sections where the ground levels of the site are sloping;
- Circular Economy Statement setting out how waste is managed during construction and occupation and use of the development for major development in accordance with Policy CSW3 of the Kent Minerals and Waste Local Plan 2024-2039;
- For commercial development exceeding 20,000 sqm, draft Heads of Terms to secure a legal agreement for the delivery of local skills training or apprenticeships and work placements within the development or through construction/the supply chain in accordance with adopted Local Plan Policy M19;
- Active Travel Statement to highlight how a development will enhance and encourage the use of active travel such as walking, cycling and wheeling.
- Details of noise insulation in existence or to be provided between proposed HMOs and any adjoining single family dwellinghouse (this is covered in the HMO supplementary planning document(SPD) which is currently being consulted on [Cabinet 23-04-26].
If you have any comments on the revised local list of validation requirements, please email planning.admin@dartford.gov.uk by June 26, 2026.
Note to applicant:
Please take note of the PINs guidance on the use of Artificial Intelligence as this may also impact on your planning submission to the Council.
As part of the Dartford Borough Council validation requirements, all planning applications for developments creating new dwellings should include the submission of a Statement setting out the residential standards proposed as part of the development, as required under Policy M1 of the Dartford Local Plan to 2037 with respect to the Nationally Described Space Standards(NDSS) and the accessible and adaptable accommodation requirements.
The Council requires this information to accurately assess the planning application and where planning permission is granted to ensure that conditions on the planning permission relate to the correct dwelling.
Full details of how to assess units with regard to the Nationally Described Space Standards can be found on the GOV.UK website.
Full details of Building Regulations Part M4(2) and Part M4(3) requirements can be found on the GOV.UK website.
The template is to assist in order to ensure that the information is provided clearly. If you require a Word version of this template, please contact Planning Admin