Location Plan vs Block Plan: what’s the difference?

The simplest way to think about it is this:

• A location plan shows where a piece of land is, exactly.
• A block plan shows what is happening on that piece of land.

They’re linked, but they do different jobs. A location plan shows the site in its wider surroundings. Its job is to help the planning authority identify exactly where the application site sits in relation to nearby roads, buildings, and the surrounding area, and it’s usually provided to the authority on Ordnance Survey mapping at 1:1250 or 1:2500 scale.  

A block plan, sometimes called a site plan, is more detailed. It shows the proposed development in relation to the site boundary itself - and that includes (but isn’t confined to) nearby buildings, access points, adjacent streets, and the layout of the site on the ground. Typically at 1:200 or 1:500 scale.  

The Planning Portal website says most applications require a location plan and a site plan, with the first giving context and the second giving detail - but there are a few other standard features councils usually expect to see. A location plan will normally show the application site outlined in red, with any other nearby land in the applicant’s ownership outlined in blue, and it should include a north point. A block plan should show the proposal in relation to boundaries, existing buildings, and access.  

If you’re unsure, it is always worth checking with your local authority first. And if you need to get the right planning map quickly, MapShop can help. We can help you access the correct location plan, block plan, or both - using the right OS mapping from the outset, so your application has the best chance of starting on solid ground.

How Emapsite can help

If you can't find exactly what you need, we can also help you choose the right mapping data solution for your project via email, chat or over the phone.

For more information, reach out to our Customer Support team.