What is a Ventilation Statement and Why Do I Need One?
- Ian Clay
- Apr 11
- 2 min read
If you are considering opening a new restaurant, take away or fast food outlet, you are likley to apply for planning permission especially if there is a change of use from a retail shop (Class E) to Take Away (Sui Generis). One element of your planning is a Ventilation Statement.
A Ventilation Statement is a document that explains how your proposed ventilation system will deal with cooking fumes, heat, grease, odour and noise.
It helps the council understand whether the system is suitable for the location and whether it is likely to affect nearby properties particularly residents.
What is a Ventilation Statement?
A Ventilation Statement is a clear written report that sets out:
the type of cooking at the premises
the proposed extract system
ductwork layout and discharge point
odour & grease control measures
noise considerations
likely impact on nearby properties (see Noise Impact Assessment)
In simple terms, it explains how the kitchen extract system has been designed and why it should be acceptable for planning.
Why might I need one?
Commercial cooking can create noise, smoke, grease, heat and strong odour (smells). If these are not controlled properly, they can affect neighbours and lead to complaints.
Councils often ask for a Ventilation Statement when:
a new food premises is proposed
a unit is changing to takeaway, café or restaurant use
external ductwork or plant is planned
the site is close to flats or houses
odour and extraction details are needed for planning
Without a suitable statement, your application may be delayed or refused.
Why is it important?
A well-prepared Ventilation Statement can help:
support your planning application
explain the extract, odour snd noise control strategy clearly
address likely concerns from the local authority
reduce requests for further information
avoid expensive redesign later
It is usually better to deal with these issues before the application is submitted.
How Ducted Solutions can help
We help our clients food outlet prepare effetive documentaion for planning.
We understand what local authorities are looking for and how a Ventilation Statement fits alongside odour control, discharge design and noise considerations.
If you have been asked for a Ventilation Statement, we can help
