What is a statement of common ground?

A statement of common ground is a written statement that contains facts about the development proposal that is being appealed, that the appellant has grounds to be considered non-disputed by the LPA. This helps to ensure the appeal focuses only on the material differences between the LPA and the appellant.

When an appeal is made, the appellant must submit a draft version of the statement of common ground. An agreed (between the appellant and the Local Planning Authority) statement of common ground must be submitted within five weeks of the start date and can be based on the appellant’s initial draft.