The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is the Government's policies that apply across England. Local planning authorities must ensure their own plans and decisions are consistent with this, and Inspectors at appeal must have regard to it. The NPPF may see some important changes soon: consultation is underway. Responses are invited until 10 March 2026.

Statistics show that those appeals determined by way of a hearing have reached a record high for approvals. There are three ways to progress an appeal - written representations, hearing or inquiry - with inquiries also showing an increase in success.

More people are tempted to use AI in making objections to planning applications, and in support of schemes. This is being recognised by professional planners, who can spot common errors that AI throws up. AI frequently misquotes policies, case law, draws wrong conclusions - it is easily spotted by a competent local authority planner, or at appeal by an experienced Inspector. The planning profession knows this, as this article shows. Our books shows how to write a proper submission that stands out from the AI errors.

An interesting story of residents in an area of London concerned about too much interference by the planning department into their lives - which appears led by other residents concerned the planners are not taking enough interest in their area.

A scheme for 50 houses was refused unanimously by a Planning Committee in Cornwall, but was allowed at appeal by the Inspector. This demonstrates the importance of showing a robust and persuasive case at the appeal stage by all parties.

A common question we receive is how long a planning appeal will take to determine. The Planning Inspectorate publish statistics, which can be found here. Unfortunately it's a slow process of typically around 6 months from validation - note, that validation can take some weeks - but it is quicker than they have been for some years. No

The long-running saga of the householder who built 'Britain's biggest man cave' has nearly come to an end. Despite losing appeals and being told to remove the building, he failed to do so and the Council were forced to take action to demolish - Councils have the power to carry out the terms of the enforcement notice and charge later for it. However, it seems the householder is reluctant to pay those bills.

Research shows that the number of successful appeals has fallen to a 5 year low, at just 18% being allowed. Our guide gives advice on how to prepare and submit your planning appeal, to give you the best chance of getting your planning permission.

The lack of housing supply can be important in determining whether an appeal is successful: if there is a shortfall, there is a presumption in favour of sustainable development. A potential housing site that had been considered for development for many years in Surrey finally got the approval at appeal, partly on the basis of the need for housing.