Location plan: where is it?
The plan shows the application site in its neighbourhood. Roads, surrounding buildings and a red boundary allow the authority to identify the land.
Block plan: what is changing?
The closer view shows site boundaries, building footprints, access and other relevant detail. Proposed work is added so its position can be assessed.
Why applications often need both
The location scale is too wide for detailed assessment, while the block scale may not show enough context to identify the property. A paired set avoids that compromise.
The plans answer different planning questions
The location plan answers ‘where is the application site?’ at neighbourhood scale. The block or site plan answers ‘how does the proposal sit within the plot?’ at a closer scale. Using one enlarged or reduced sheet for both jobs often loses either context or useful detail.
| Feature | Location plan | Block or site plan |
|---|---|---|
| Typical purpose | Identify and define the site | Assess site layout and relationships |
| Common scale | 1:1,250 or 1:2,500 | 1:200 or 1:500 |
| Context | Roads, surrounding buildings and wider setting | Boundaries, buildings, access and nearby features |
| Proposal detail | Usually limited to the site boundary | Shows the proposed footprint or layout where relevant |
A block plan needs project information added
A close OS map extract is a useful base, but it does not by itself describe a proposed extension, parking layout or new building. The issued plan should distinguish existing and proposed features and include relevant dimensions, boundary distances, access, parking, trees, levels or landscaping when the application needs them.
Names vary, so read the requested scale and content
Authorities may say ‘site plan’, ‘block plan’, ‘site layout plan’ or ‘existing and proposed site plan’. A ‘site location plan’ usually means the wider location plan. Use the authority's definition and checklist rather than relying on the title alone.
Local requirements may differ. Check the current validation list for your planning authority before submitting.
Evidence checked 18 August 2026
Official sources and further reading
Planning requirements differ across the UK. The scope label on each source shows where it applies; always use the current rules for the authority receiving the application.
Questions people also ask
Is a block plan the same as a site plan?
In UK planning the terms are often used interchangeably, although some councils ask for separate existing and proposed site layouts.
Should the boundaries match?
Yes. The plans should describe the same application site consistently.
Can I submit the same drawing as both plans?
Only if it genuinely meets both purposes and the authority accepts it, which is uncommon. The normal scales and required level of detail are different.
Does a block plan replace floor plans and elevations?
No. It shows the proposal in the site; floor plans, elevations, roof plans and sections describe the building design.
Must the red boundary appear on the block plan too?
Follow the authority's checklist. Where the application boundary is shown on more than one drawing, its extent should be consistent with the location plan.
Ready to create your planning map?
Search by postcode or address, choose the scale and coverage, add your application boundary and download from UKPlanningMaps.com. For help with an unusual site, call 01856 898 022.
Create your plan at UKPlanningMaps.com ↗