Guide
Location plans and block plans for planning applications
By 3D Design Studios ·
Most planning applications in England need a location plan, and most also need a block plan (also called a site plan). They are simple drawings, but an application can be made invalid if they are missing or wrong, so it is worth getting the details right.
The location plan
A location plan shows the application site in its surroundings, so the planning authority can identify exactly where it is. It is usually at a scale of 1:1250 or 1:2500, shows at least two named roads and the surrounding buildings, and has the application site edged in red.
- Red line: the boundary of the application site, including any access to the road
- Blue line: any other land nearby that the applicant owns
- North point, scale and the Ordnance Survey licence details
The block plan
A block plan, or site plan, shows the proposal in more detail within the site: the position of the extension or new building, the boundaries, distances to the boundaries, access, parking and trees that may be affected. It is usually at 1:500 or 1:200.
Getting the Ordnance Survey map
Location and block plans in England, Wales and Scotland are drawn on an Ordnance Survey base map, which must be licensed. Approved OS plan suppliers sell site maps online for a few pounds. Buy the map in your own name for your site, then the boundaries and the proposal are drawn on it.
Check your council's validation list
Each local planning authority publishes a local validation checklist saying which drawings it needs for each type of application. The national requirements set the minimum, but local lists often ask for more, so check before you submit.