Welcome to your Lancashire

Planning Obligations

Planning Obligations are legal agreements negotiated between the developer and the planning authority that can be used to offset the effects of new development.
The impact of development can be addressed by the direct provision of new facilities or, where appropriate, through a financial contribution towards new or improved facilities and services.

The Planning Obligations in Lancashire Policy Paper puts forward principles, methods and good practice with the aim of developing a consistent and robust approach to planning obligations across Lancashire. It has been produced by a working group from the Lancashire Planning Officers’ Society (LPOS). The group consisted of representatives from Lancashire County Council, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, Blackpool Borough Council, Chorley Borough Council, Hyndburn Borough Council and Preston City Council.

The paper was updated in September 2008 to reflect up to date costs. To view the paper click on the link below:

Before completing the main calculations you will need to calculate the accessibility score for the site. You can do this using the links below. Additional information on the location of key services (bus stops, primary and secondary schools, libraries and public houses) can be found on Lancashire County Council’s mapping system.

For Residential developments:

For Commercial developments:

The level of any contribution is calculated according to the methodology set out in the paper. You are advised to speak to a Planning Officer to confirm the level of contribution in connection with a specific scheme/planning application.

The following papers are background to the November 2006 Policy Paper.

© 2012, Lancashire County CouncilPhone: 0845 053 0000 email: enquiries@lancashire.gov.uk