Supporting document types

The economic impact on the surrounding area is often considered for larger developments. Primarily the effect of development will have on nearby businesses. 

If the nature of the development requires affordable housing or a levy to be paid (such as the Community Infrastructure Levy) then supporting documents may be necessary to show how they will adhered to the guidance. 

Affordable housing statement

An affordable housing statement should be prepared for all proposals which exceed the limit set by the local planning authority. This is likely to be for developments of 10 residential units or more. To see if you are eligible contact your local planning authority or check their website.

The statement should identify what, if any, provisions are to be made for affordable housing including the size, location and tenure of the units with their relevant affordability attached. 

Community Infrastructure Levy - completed form

(Also known as: CIL form) 

A Community Infrastructure Levy form should be completed alongside an application if the proposed development is in an area where the Community Infrastructure Levy¹ is in place. Your local authority’s website will have details on the relevant charges and whether they apply to specific applications.

Without a CIL form your application may be deemed invalid.  
Details around your proposal need to be submitted including the gross internal area before and after development. The form allows the local planning authority to determine if the Community Infrastructure Levy applies to the application or if any relief and exemptions are appropriate.

Detailed guidance notes² are available to help with your application.

Economic statement

An economic statement is required when land which was used for employment is seeking a new alternative change of use or new spaces for employment are being created.

The economic statement should include a market report which proves no public interest in the proposed space. Demonstrated through the property being marketed for six months for employment use and 12 months for commercial developments. Within the statement the lost floorspace for each change of use should be shown. 

Retail impact assessment

(Also known as: RIA) 

A Retail Impact Assessment (RIA) is used for large scale retail developments which may impact trade in the area. An assessment will be required if the development is likely to have a significant effect on the existing trade. 

The local planning authority can request this if they believe there will be a significant impact. The RIA should outline any impacts which the proposed development will have on surrounding retail centres.

Check the relevant website or contact your local planning authority to see if it is relevant to your application. 

Town centre uses - evidence

(Also known as: Town Centre Uses) 

Town centre uses evidence is used to show that the development is in line with the local authority’s main town centre plan and the National Planning Policy Framework guidance. 

It includes a sequential test which aims to help development occur in the town centre where possible, if not then moving outwards, but to areas of good accessibility. 

Government guidance on the sequential test³ is available to help you with your application. 
Within an application compliance with the sequential test should be shown, with a focus on the location, accessibility and viability of the site. 

1. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/planning/policy-and-legislation/CIL
2. https://ecab.planningportal.co.uk/uploads/1app/cil_guidance.pdf
3. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/ensuring-the-vitality-of-town-centres#permitted-development-and-change-of-use-in-town-centres