Consultation on draft local validation requirements

What is a local validation list?

A validation list sets out the supporting information that must be submitted with a planning application in order for it to be accepted as valid. It also provides guidance on the level of detail and scope required, which will depend on the scale and nature of the proposed development.

The validation lists are divided into two sections, national validation requirements and local validation requirements. 

The national requirements are set by central government and apply consistently across all Local Planning Authorities in England. The local validation requirements apply specifically to planning applications submitted to Lewisham Council and are informed by national, regional and local planning policies. Applications that do not include the information required by either the national or local validation lists, where relevant to the proposed development, will not be considered a valid submission.

This consultation considers only the local validation lists, as the national validation requirements are set out in law. Local validation requirements are informed by planning policy and other relevant drivers, which justify the need for supporting information.

The updated lists reflect changes to national guidance, best practice, and Lewisham’s adopted Local Plan (July 2025). The overall structure remains the same, with separate lists for each application type of application.

The review has also sought to ensure that validation requirements are proportionate. Where appropriate, unnecessary or overly burdensome requirements have been removed or streamlined to reduce barriers to submission and help support a more efficient planning process.

Consultation 

The consultation runs from Tuesday 1 September to Tuesday 29 September 2026.

The draft local validation lists can be viewed at the bottom of this page.

We are seeking views on the content of the updated local validation requirements. Whether you are a resident planning a home improvement project, a planning agent, architect, consultant, developer, statutory consultee, community group, or another organisation involved in the planning process, we would like to hear your views on the proposed changes.

Please send any comments to Planning@Lewisham.gov.uk with the subject line ‘Draft Local Validation Lists Consultation Comments’.

Why your views matter?

Local Planning Authorities are required to publish a local validation list for planning applications and to review it at least every two years.

Your feedback will help ensure that the validation requirements are clear, proportionate, and effective in supporting the assessment of planning applications, while avoiding unnecessary delays or burdens on applicants.

What happens next?

After the consultation ends, all feedback will be reviewed and considered. Where appropriate, changes will be made to the documents before the updated local validation lists are finalised and adopted.

Documents