Imaging element and method for making lithographic printing plate according to the silver salt diffusion transfer process

An imaging element comprising in the order given (i) a hydrophilic base, (ii) an image receiving layer containing physical development nuclei, (iii) an intermediate layer comprising a non-proteinic hydrophilic film-forming polymer or hydrophobic polymer beads having an average diameter not lower than 0.2 .mu.m and having been prepared by polymerization of a ethylenically unsaturated monomer and (iv) a photosensitive layer containing a silver halide emulsion being in water permeable relationship with said image receiving layer, characterized in that said photosensitive layer and/or another optional layer being in water permeable relationship therewith contains at least one gelatin species whereof a 10% by weight aqueous solution at 36.degree. C. and pH 6 has a viscosity lower than 20 mPa.s at a shearing rate of 1000 s.sup.-1 and that at least one gelatin containing layers is coated at a pH value not below its iso-electric point.