Required for all applications proposing developments in excess of 100 dwellings; or 10,000m sq new floor space (or an equivalent combination).

A Utilities Statement should include how an application connects to existing utility infrastructure systems. Most new developments require connection to existing utility services, including electricity and gas supplies, telecommunications and water supply, and also needs connection to foul and surface water drainage and disposal. It should be noted that in most circumstances surface water is not permitted to be connected to the public foul sewers.

A foul drainage assessment should include a full assessment of the site, its location and suitability for storing, transporting and treating sewage. Where connection to the mains sewer is not practical, then the foul/non-mains drainage assessment will be required to demonstrate why the development cannot connect to the public mains sewer system and show that the alternative means of disposal are satisfactory.

Guidance on what should be included in a non-mains drainage assessment is given in the NPPG, and Building Regulations Approved Document Part H and in BS6297.

Two planning issues arise; firstly, whether the existing services and infrastructure have sufficient capacity to accommodate the supply/service demands which would arise from the completed development; and secondly whether the provision of services on site would give rise to any environmental impacts, for example excavations in the vicinity of trees or archaeological remains.

Utility Statements should demonstrate:

  • That the availability of utility services has been examined and that the proposals would not result in undue stress on the delivery of those services to the wider community;

  • That proposals incorporate any utility company requirements for substations, telecommunications equipment or similar structures;

  • That service routes have been planned to avoid as far as possible the potential for damage to trees and archaeological remains.

  • where the development impinges on existing infrastructure the provisions for relocating or protecting that infrastructure should have been agreed with the service provider.

 

Last updated: 20 March 2018

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