Background

The Local Validation Checklist provides guidance on the national validation requirements for planning applications as set out in the Development Management Procedure Order 2015 (as amended). It also identifies local information requirements arising from the policies contained within the adopted Dartmoor Local Plan. In accordance with National Planning Policy Framework it should be reviewed every 2 years (NPPF, para 45) and to carry full weight, the document must be subject to consultation (National Planning Policy Guidance).

A consultation on the draft Local Validation Checklist ran from 14^th July 2025 – 21^st September 2025.

Consultees

Notification of the consultation and details of how to comment was sent by email to Parish Councils, Members, planning agents who regularly submit applications, statutory consultees and people subscribed to the DNPA newsletters.

Publicity

The draft Local Validation Checklist and details of how to comment were published on DNPA website and publicised on the Dartmoor National Park Facebook page with reminders posted during the consultation period.

Responses

We had a total of 9 external responses: 2 from individuals, 3 from planning agents and architects and 4 from consultees (Dean Prior Parish Council, Devon County Council, Devon Wildlife Trust and National Highways). In addition, further comments from internal DNPA officers were received. A summary of the comments received and DNPA’s response is set out in the next section.

Next Steps

Following the consultation the draft LVC has been amended to respond to the issues raised. The draft LVC will be taken to Authority for Members consideration.

If you would like to view the responses we received, please click here