WQ98009 (e) Tabled on 15/01/2026

Has the Welsh Government considered implementing subsidised or discounted surveys for planning applications submitted by childcare providers?

Answered by Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning | Answered on 22/01/2026

For a planning authority to make an informed, robust and lawful determination of a planning application it needs sufficient information about all material considerations of a case. 

Uniquely for childminders, the planning system offers a free pre-application screening process, to advise whether planning permission would likely be required to use a building for childminding.  Detailed guidance, including a template letter for prospective childminders to send to planning authorities, is set out in Welsh Government circular CL-01-16.