Digital 3D modelling

We use VU.CITY digital 3D platform to assess and improve the design of major planning applications. This tool helps us ensure high-quality, well-considered developments across the borough.

3D visualisations allow us to:

• Evaluate how new developments fit into the local context.
• Provide detailed feedback on size, scale, and design.
• Assess impacts on views and environmental factors.

Our 3D model of Hemel Hempstead helps inform discussions with applicants regarding the impact of developments and improve the decision-making process.

You should share your models with our team during pre-application discussions. A final version should be submitted to support the planning application.

3D modelling requirements for applicants

A digital 3D model is required for:

• Category A: Significant major developments
• Category B: Very large major developments
• Category C: Major developments (required for projects of four storeys or taller - check with your case officer for other cases).

A 3D model is not required for:

• Category D: Minor developments
• Category E: Minor Housing/Commercial Developments
• Category F: Householder Applications

However, in sensitive areas (such as conservation areas or when making alterations to listed buildings), submitting a 3D model may still be beneficial. Discuss this with your case officer.

Please note: at present the requirement for 3D VU.CITY submission relates to Hemel Hempstead only. However, we may request 3D views of a development to be commissioned independently in other major development applications in the borough.

How to share a model with us

Option 1: Via VU.City

Share your model with us from within the VU.City Cloud Platform - find out more in the user guide. 

You may wish to take out a licence with VU.CITY as part of the design and pre-application process to test your own schemes in 3D.

You can get temporary access to VU.CITY to import, view and share a model link with us. Find out more about temporary access on the VU.City website.

Option 2: Submitting a file directly 

The model should be submitted as below:

• Format: FBX file
• Geolocation: In OS space in metres (m) units
• Low polycount: Less than 65,000 vertices
• File size: Less than 128MB
• Naming: Include your application reference and any revision details
• Submission form: Complete the  3D model import submission form (PDF 312KB).

If you have any issues, or questions on the process, please email planning@dacorum.gov.uk. 

More information

For more detailed guidance on geolocating and preparing a model for import, please see the VU.CITY website links below:

• File requirements
• Geolocation
• Importing a model
  

If you have any issues regarding import or using the model, please call the VU.CITY technical support team on 0808 168 3931 or email support@vu.city.

Model area

Currently, our 3D model covers Hemel Hempstead and the surrounding countryside. Other areas across the borough will be reviewed in due course.