We are currently running a consultation on the Local Validation Criteria and would appreciate any feedback you may want to provide.

These Validation Criteria explain the information that we need for all applications (known as the National Validation Requirements) and the information that we ask for at Stafford Borough Council (known as the Local Validation Requirements).

Planning Application Validation Guidance and Local Validation Criteria (pdf 1.34mb)

There have been numerous updates so please read the document in its entirety however the main changes are listed below:

• Minor changes to formatting and grammar throughout the document to aid clarity and interpretation.
• The inclusion of a new annex - a guide to writing descriptions of development.
• Section 11 (applications made under s96a), new section.
• Section 13 (application forms), new paragraphs relating to the description of development.
• Section 23 (BNG), additional paragraphs relating to the option to use the small sites metric.
• Section 24 (local requirements)
  • Policy drivers updated in line with latest policy and regulations
  • Use of acronyms rationalised throughout the table.
  • Omission of ‘Design and Access Statement’ to avoid duplication and reflect national requirements.
  • New items:
    • Biodiversity Net Gain (local) information - reference 5
    • Custom/self build declaration - reference 10.
    • Design review - reference 11
    • Visual effects assessment - reference 40.
  • Amendments to existing items:
    • Cannock Chase SAC statement of willingness - reference 7 - to be required for houses in multiple occupancy and permanent gypsy and traveller pitches.
    • Great Crested Newt assessment - reference 16 - Reformatted to highlight the district licensing scheme. Additional optional route to provide a statement where a qualified ecologist advises that surveys are not likely to be required.  
    • Habitat regulations statement - reference 17 - Omit requirement when a statement of willingness is provided.
    • Landscape visual impact assessment - reference 21 - Threshold introduced (1ha) for solar or polytunnel applications.
    • Minerals safeguarding statement - reference 24 - Threshold introduced (major development outside of settlement boundaries).
  • Amendments to clarify the need for site specific and up-to-date assessments as follows:
    • Land contamination assessment (reference 20).
    • Preliminary ecological assessments (reference 29).
    • Structural surveys (reference 32).
    • Tree surveys (reference 37).

If you would like to leave us your comments and feedback please fill in our short survey.

The closing date for the consultation will be 17 October 2025.