When considering any development proposals we aim to ensure that all new developments within Derbyshire are assessed in terms of their safety and impact on the roads.
Planning applications
As part of the planning process the planning authorities consult with us on a weekly basis regarding applications where highway related issues may be a concern.
We have 3 weeks in which to make a formal response to the planning authorities. We have 3 options:
- to request further information in order to resolve highway concerns or clarify the proposals
- offer no objections to the proposal and recommend planning conditions - where the application is considered to have no detrimental effect on highway issues or the effects can be mitigated by improvement works
- request that the application be refused on the grounds of highway safety - such requests are made on the understanding that the reasons given must be sustainable if challenged on appeal
We can only make requests and recommendations. The final decision rests with the relevant planning authority or committee.
Pre-planning enquiries
We recognise that pre-application discussion has a number of benefits, including:
- reduction in the time spent by professional advisors in working up a proposal
- helping to ensure a smoother and quicker passage through the decision process
- ensuring an application is complete, comprehensive and to a satisfactory standard - avoiding rejection at the registration stage or early refusal of permission because of inadequate information
Working in partnership with the planning authorities, we'll try to respond to all pre-application enquiries. It's the highway authority's normal practice to share any pre-application advice it offers with the appropriate local planning authority.
It's a requirement that developers bring forward formal proposals and do not seek the design from us.
Contact us
For planning-related matters, email ete.devcontrol@derbyshire.gov.uk
For adoption and construction-related matters, including Section 278 and 38 agreements, and requests for a Section 278/38 application form, please email development.implementation@derbyshire.gov.uk
Planning streets and places design guide
The Planning Streets and Places (PSP) guide establishes our design guide for street design in Derbyshire, ensuring developments align with sustainability, accessibility, and transport network management.
It promotes early engagement in planning, prioritising active travel, public transport integration, and decarbonization. Key elements include context appraisal, connectivity, crime prevention, and green infrastructure.
It emphasizes quality place-making, accessibility for all users, and economic benefits. The guide also details street design typologies, junction layouts, and adoption processes, ensuring compliance with statutory highway functions and local policies.
Developers must adhere to technical standards for road safety, visibility, street lighting, and environmental impact mitigation.
This document supersedes all previous design guides. PSP will be reviewed annually to so that it remains current to changes in national and local policy and to reflect on emerging evidence.
Parking guidance for new developments
The parking guidance for new developments complements the planning streets and places guide, by setting out parking policies for residential, commercial, and educational developments.
It advocates for a balance between vehicle provision and sustainable transport choices, with car-free developments encouraged in urban areas.
Parking standards are informed by local census data, with mobility hubs and bicycle storage prioritised. Provisions for electric vehicle infrastructure, disabled access, and shared transport solutions are emphasised to support Derbyshire’s climate strategy and transport plan.
Together, these documents shape a sustainable, well-connected, and accessible built environment in Derbyshire.
Guidance for retrofit SuDs for highways
We've developed a design guide covering the maintenance, specification, and standard details for sustainable drainage systems (SUDs) on the highway.
This design guide should be adhered to by all contractors working on the Derbyshire network.
A copy of the guide can be requested by emailing flood.team@derbyshire.gov.uk
Adopted roads
For information on adopted roads, please see our list of streets.