Defying the Decision: Weighing the Pros and Cons of Appealing Planning Permission

Planning permission is a critical aspect of any Architectural project, from new builds to extensions, loft conversions, and renovations. When you entrust your project to a reputable architectural company like Shear Architectural Design, you can expect a high success rate for gaining planning permission. But what happens if your application is rejected? In this article, we’ll explore the process of appealing Planning Permission and answer some of the most pressing questions on this topic.

Is it worth appealing planning permission?

Appealing planning permission can be a complex process, but it may be worth considering if you believe that the council’s decision was unjustified. Before embarking on the appeal journey, it’s crucial to assess the grounds for the initial refusal and determine if there’s a valid case for appeal.

What percentage of planning appeals are successful?

According to the Planning Inspectorate appeal search, approximately 35% of planning appeals in the UK are successful. This figure varies depending on the nature of the project and the grounds for the initial refusal. It’s essential to work with experienced professionals like Shear Architectural Design, who can help you navigate the appeal process and improve your chances of success. In addition – engaging a Planning Consultant may also increase your chances of success.

What are the grounds for a planning appeal?

Common grounds for a planning appeal include:

The council’s decision is not in line with their local development plan or the government planning portal policies.
The council’s decision is based on inaccurate or incomplete information.
The council failed to consider material considerations or gave undue weight to irrelevant factors.

How much does it cost to appeal a planning decision?

In the UK, there is no fee to submit a planning appeal. However, there may be additional costs associated with the process, such as hiring professionals to prepare supporting documents and expert opinions. It’s also essential to consider the potential costs of modifying your plans to address the council’s concerns.

On what grounds can you reject planning permission?

Planning permission can be rejected for various reasons, such as:

The proposed development is not in line with local or national planning policies.
The development would have an adverse impact on the local environment, heritage, or community.
The design or scale of the development is not appropriate for the site or the surrounding area.

What happens if I lose a planning appeal?

If you lose a planning appeal, you’ll need to accept the council’s decision or consider revising your plans to address their concerns. In some cases, you may need to start the planning process from scratch. It’s crucial to work closely with your Architectural Design team to ensure that your revised plans are compliant and have a higher chance of gaining approval.

Can Neighbours refuse planning permission?

Neighbours can express their concerns or objections during the public consultation phase, but they cannot directly refuse planning permission. The local planning authority will consider neighbours’ objections when making their decision, but they will also weigh these against the overall planning policies and the merits of the development.

How long will a planning appeal take?

The length of a planning appeal varies depending on the complexity of the case and the method of appeal chosen. Written representation appeals typically take around 22-26 weeks, while hearings and inquiries can take longer, sometimes up to a year or more. The Planning Inspectorate aims to process most appeals within 36 weeks, but delays can occur due to a backlog of cases or other factors.

Navigating the Appeal Process

When appealing planning permission, it’s essential to follow these steps:

Determine the grounds for your appeal and gather supporting evidence.
Choose the appropriate method of appeal (written representation, hearing, or inquiry).
Submit your appeal through the gov planning portal within six months of the decision date (or within 12 weeks for householder applications).
Await the council’s response and prepare your case, working closely with your Architectural Design team.
Attend any hearings or inquiries, if required, and present your case.
Await the Planning Inspectorate’s decision, which will be binding on both you and the local planning authority.

Remember that working with experienced professionals like Shear Architectural Design can help you navigate the planning appeal process and maximise your chances of success.

In conclusion, appealing planning permission can be a challenging and time-consuming process, but it may be worth pursuing if you believe the council’s decision was unjustified. By working with experienced professionals like Shear Architectural Design, you can navigate the complexities of the appeal process and maximise your chances of a successful outcome.

Remember to weigh the pros and cons of appealing planning permission, taking into account the potential costs and time required. It’s essential to carefully consider the grounds for your appeal and work closely with your Architectural Design team to present a strong case to the Planning Inspectorate.

Whether you’re planning a new build, extension, loft conversion, or renovation, Shear Architectural Design can help you navigate the planning permission process and support you in the event of an appeal. With our expertise and impressive success rate, you can trust us to bring your Architectural vision to life.

For more information and advice on planning permission and the appeal process, explore our blog or contact us today to discuss your project with our expert team.

At Shear Architectural Design, we’re passionate about helping our clients bring their vision to life. From gaining planning permission to providing expert advice on design and materials, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Explore our portfolio for more inspiration and get in touch with us to start your journey towards your dream outdoor space today.

Working with an Architectural Designer can help you to achieve your goals and ensure that your project is a success. Shear Architectural Design is a reliable and experienced company that can help you with your home renovation, building project or garden project, in Sussex.

Our Services

At Shear Architectural Design, we offer a range of services to help you bring your Passive House vision to life:

We assist with gaining planning permission and building regulations, ensuring that your project meets all necessary requirements.

See our excellent reviews and social media pages, HERE

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shear Architectural Design (@shear_architectural_design_)

Defying the Decision: Weighing the Pros and Cons of Appealing Planning Permission