Guide to planning regulations and policies​

Below are some issues that you may need to consider, with links to additional information where available.

National planning policy

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is the government’s overarching planning policy document. 

Local planning policy

All decisions are based on local planning policies. You can view the most up-to-date policies on the Local Plan section of this website.

Access  

It is important to consider accessibility and to ensure that development is future proof in terms of its long-term adaptability. More information is available in the Design Guide or on the Planning Portal website: Neighbours.

Design Guide

The council has an adopted Design Guide that should be used to assist and advise the design process. 

Conservation areas and listed buildings

If your development is within a conservation area, it is possible that there will be additional planning restrictions that will affect your application. More information is available on the conservation area section of this website.

If your development involves or affects a listed building, restrictions will apply. You should contact the council's conservation officer before considering any works to seek advice as early as possible. More information is available on the listed building section of this website.

Flooding and drainage

If your development is located in a flood zone, we will need to be satisfied that the proposal is justified and that the consequences of flooding are acceptable. You will need to consider how waste and surface water will be dealt with as part of your proposal. More information is available on the flooding and drainage section of this website or from the Environment Agency website

Highways and traffic

Access, traffic level, highway safety and parking provision for new development will be considered as part of the application. Advice will be provided from the Cambridgeshire County Council's highways officers. You can seek pre-application advice from them prior to submitting your application.

Nature, wildlife and biodiversity

You will need to consider the effect of your proposal on wildlife, with many plants and animals protected. More information is available on the ecology and biodiversity section of this website or from the Natural England website

Sustainability

New homes and buildings should be designed and built following good sustainability principles in order to improve and reduce the carbon output from development. More information is available in the Design Guide.