Latest statistics show the time taken for planning appeals to be determined by the Planning Inspectorate is still higher than a few years ago, but it is dropping. A householder appeal will now take around 4 months, and other written appeals about 5/6 months. But with local planning authorities often taking many months to determine applications, appeals against non-determination may be more popular anyway in order to get a decision.

The Government has announced further changes to permitted development rights. Shops can now change to housing, subject to prior approval from the Council. There are limited controls over what shops can change, with only those in conservation areas being subject to tests. There is a floorspace limit though

Recent data has shown that more appeals are being dismissed now than in the past, which has led to the unusual step of the Planning Inspectorate issuing a statement on this. Increase your chances at appeal by seeing the clear advice in our book.

An interesting user-generated map of grass root environmental campaigns has been set up, using Google Maps to track where pressure groups are involved in development proposals. It can be seen via this link

Securing planning permission for a house in the countryside is very difficult. One route can be through 'paragraph 79' of the National Planning Policy Framework, which allows houses in the countryside if they are of exceptional quality. But they are difficult; only two houses on this basis have been allowed at appeal in the last 10 years. So if you're thinking of this route you'll need the highest quality design, and the best case put at appeal.

Large planning applications can lead to a large number of objections. In this instance of drilling for oil on the Isle of Wight, over 3,000 objections received. Objectors need to be focused on objections and concentrate on town planning issues and law. The shear weight of numbers against a proposal is not enough in itself to mean a planning application will be refused.

We have a new video on YouTube - a quick guide to show you how to find out if your land or property is at risk from flooding. This is an important matter to consider if you're thinking of extending your property or building on a plot of land. You may need a flood risk assessment to show that you can build. Or the development you want to undertake might be ruled out by the risk of the flooding. Find out before you make what could be a costly mistake.

A recent story in the news reports on a man who tried to get round planning rules by declaring his land a sovereign state and himself King. Not a recommended way to go, as this story shows. Much better to rely on good planning arguments, so check out our books for advice.
Photo by Mitya Ivanov on Unsplash

December 2020 statistics from the Government show that the percentage of applications granted permission by local planning authorities has dropped. If you have recently been refused planning permission then you have a right of appeal, and our book can help you. The appeal goes to the Government and is an independent review of the refusal. There is a deadline for lodging the appeal, so don't delay in acting.