How to Avoid Common Pitfalls in CLP Submissions to Local Authorities

For developers in London and surrounding boroughs, submitting a Construction Logistics Plan (CLP) is often a mandatory step in the planning process. While the intention behind CLPs is straightforward managing the impact of construction traffic the submission process can be complex and unforgiving. 

Unfortunately, many applications are delayed or rejected due to basic oversights. In this guide, we explore the most common pitfalls in CLP submissions and how to avoid them by meeting both local and regional standards from the start. 

What Local Councils Expect from a CLP 

Each borough in London has slightly different planning priorities. However, there are some standard elements that virtually every local authority and Transport for London (TfL) will expect in your submission. 

Baseline information required 

Your CLP must clearly outline: 

• The full site address and scope of development 

• Anticipated construction timelines 

• Daily and peak HGV vehicle movements 

• Details of waste removal and material deliveries 

• On-site logistics management processes 

This data forms the foundation of the assessment by planning officers. 

Compliance with borough transport policy 

Your plan must reflect local policy priorities, such as air quality, congestion reduction, and protection of Active Travel Zones. Referencing relevant borough strategies and TfL standards improves your chances of swift approval. 

 To learn more about CLP requirements, visit our Construction Logistics Plans page. 

TfL’s minimum standards 

TfL requires all CLPs to follow its Construction Logistics Plan Guidance, which includes: 

• Efficient routing to reduce mileage and emissions 

• Consolidation of deliveries where possible 

• Vehicle compliance with the Direct Vision Standard 

• Evidence of engagement with contractors and logistics providers 

Most Common Errors in Submissions 

Lack of a clear delivery schedule 

This is one of the most frequent mistakes. Boroughs need to see a day-to-day or phase-by-phase delivery plan showing how deliveries will be managed and minimised during construction. 

Inaccurate or missing routing maps 

Routing plans must be accurate and up to date. Many submissions fail due to the inclusion of: 

• Unsuitable roads (e.g. school zones, weight-restricted bridges) 

• Ambiguous or non-compliant delivery routes 

• Incomplete access diagrams 
  

No engagement with stakeholders 

A robust CLP includes evidence of engagement with all parties involved, such as: 

• Contractors and subcontractors 

• Local residents or businesses 

• Borough officers or transport engineers 

• Utility providers 

Without this, your plan may be viewed as incomplete. 

Pre-Submission Review Checklist 

Before sending your CLP to the borough, run through this checklist: 

Alignment with the London Plan 

Make sure your CLP meets the London Plan’s focus on sustainability, safety, and reducing the environmental impact of construction-related freight. 

Environmental impact reporting 

Include air quality assessments and CO₂ mitigation measures, such as: 

• Use of low-emission vehicles 

• Delivery consolidation centres 

• On-site emission reduction strategies (e.g. electric cranes, plant optimisation) 
  

Contractor logistics readiness 

Ensure contractors are aware of and trained on the CLP. Boroughs increasingly ask for: 

• Induction materials 

• HGV driver safety briefing records 

• Site rules for delivery vehicle marshals 

The Role of Expert Consultants 

CLPs are not just planning documents they are regulatory and operational frameworks that require professional input. 

At Capital Transport Planning, we work with developers to: 

• Prepare site-specific, borough-compliant CLPs 

• Liaise with TfL and local authorities 

• Manage digital submissions 

• Support post-approval monitoring and enforcement 

Visit our Why Choose Us page to explore how we streamline the CLP process for complex builds. 

Fast-Tracking CLP Approvals 

Working with TfL and borough planners 

Engaging early with planning officers and TfL representatives helps identify and resolve any issues before submission. This also reduces the need for revisions, saving time and resources. 

Using digital submission platforms 

Most London boroughs now accept or require CLPs via online portals. Submitting your documentation in the correct format with the required mapping layers and appendices is critical to avoiding delays. 

 Need help with your submission? Contact our team via the Contact page. 

Conclusion 

A Construction Logistics Plan is more than just a formality it’s a key part of the approval and construction process. By understanding borough expectations, working with qualified consultants, and avoiding common mistakes, you can significantly reduce delays and build with confidence. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Q. What are the most common reasons CLP submissions are rejected?

1. Missing baseline project data 

2. Incorrect or unclear delivery routes 

3. Lack of environmental mitigation strategies 

4. No consultation with contractors or stakeholders 

5. Incomplete vehicle and trip data 

Q. How can I ensure my CLP meets TfL and borough standards?

Always begin by reviewing TfL’s latest CLP guidance and speaking with the relevant borough transport officer. Working with a specialist consultant ensures your plan meets both policy and technical requirements. 

Q. Can I reuse a CLP from a previous project?

No. CLPs must be specific to the site, project phase, local authority, and transport context. Reusing content without tailoring it often leads to rejection. 

Q. How long does CLP approval typically take?

Depending on the borough and project complexity, approvals usually take 4–12 weeks. Early engagement, complete documentation, and experienced submission handling can reduce this timeframe. 

Q. Is post-approval CLP monitoring required?

Yes. Many boroughs require periodic monitoring reports, vehicle logs, and compliance data—particularly for major or long-duration builds. Failure to monitor and enforce the CLP can lead to fines or restrictions. 

Q. How can Capital Transport Planning assist?

We provide end-to-end support: drafting, liaising with boroughs and TfL, submitting documentation, and offering on-site training or logistics coordination. Our experience ensures your project stays compliant and on track.