Block Plan for a Planning Application: Scale and Requirements

A block plan is also commonly called a site plan. Where a location plan helps the council find the site, the block plan helps the planning officer understand the layout and assess what is changing.

What does it need to show?

The exact documents can vary by application type and planning authority, so check the current local validation list. As a practical starting point, include:

  • The full development site and its boundaries
  • Existing buildings and the position of proposed work
  • Roads, paths and access around the site
  • A north arrow and a recognised metric scale
  • Relevant trees, hard surfaces, parking or neighbouring features where required
  • The application boundary, usually shown in red

Quick check: if the plan is printed at the stated paper size, it must still measure accurately at its stated scale.

How to create one

  1. Choose an up-to-date detailed base map.
  2. Use 1:500 for a useful overview or 1:200 when closer detail is needed.
  3. Show the existing site clearly.
  4. Add or overlay the proposed building, extension or site change.
  5. Label relevant access, boundaries and important nearby features.
  6. Check your council’s local validation list before submission.

Search for your property and create the plan at UKPlanningMaps.com ↗

How much does it cost?

Planning-map prices depend on the plan type, scale, coverage, paper size, file format and whether the order needs bespoke preparation. Check the current UKPlanningMaps.com price list before ordering.

See current prices and available formats ↗

Can I get one free?

You can sketch a proposal yourself, but the base mapping still needs to be accurate, current and properly licensed. A free map screenshot is not a reliable substitute for a correctly prepared block plan.

What is the difference?

A block plan is the detailed, zoomed-in view, normally at 1:200 or 1:500. A location plan is the wider view, normally at 1:1,250 or 1:2,500.

PlanMain purposeTypical scale
Location / site location planShows where the site is1:1,250 or 1:2,500
Block / site planShows site detail and the proposal1:200 or 1:500

Where can I buy one?

UKPlanningMaps.com provides a quick and easy way to create planning maps online. Search for the property, select the scale and area, draw the boundary and download the finished file immediately. If you need help, call 01856 898 022.

Ready to make your map?

Create your plan in minutes.

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