Understanding Planning Appeals: A Comprehensive Guide
If your planning permission has been refused, you have the right to appeal against the planning decision if you disagree with it or if the decision wasn't made within the specified time period and no extension was agreed upon. Planning conditions can also be appealed.
All appeals are handled by the Planning Inspectorate (PINS), a separate government body responsible for appeals and other planning-related and specialist casework in England and Wales. Planning appeals are lodged through a distinct process separate from that of planning applications.
The most common type of planning appeal are as follows:
Written Representations: The most common and straightforward method, involving the exchange of written statements by the appellant, the LPA, and any interested parties.
Hearing: An informal discussion led by an inspector, where both parties can present their case and answer questions.
Public Inquiry: A formal process similar to a court hearing, usually reserved for more complex cases. It involves legal representation, witness testimonies, and cross-examination.
Planning Appeal Process
Timescales
The appeal must be lodged within a specific period from the decision notice (usually 6 months for a refusal or 12 weeks for a householder planning application).
The average timescale for the determination of a planning appeal at the moment is 30 weeks from when PINS accept it as a 'valid' appeal, but it's more useful to recognise the spread of timescales, with most cases taking 21 - 44 weeks to get an appeal decision from PINS.
Preparation of Documents
The appellant must prepare and submit all relevant documents, including:
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The original planning application and supporting documents.
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The decision notice and any conditions imposed.
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Grounds for the appeal, explaining why the appellant disagrees with the LPA's decision.
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Any additional evidence or information that supports the appeal
Determination
The inspector reviews all the evidence and representations before making a decision. The decision can:
Allow the Appeal: Overturning the LPA's decision, granting planning permission or removing/modifying conditions.
Dismiss the Appeal: Upholding the LPA's decision, meaning the original refusal or conditions stand.
What are the possibilities and benefits when carrying out a single storey extension?
Single-storey extensions provide a versatile way to expand your home without the complexities of multi-level construction. Here are some common uses and design ideas:
How can we help?
If a planning application appeal becomes necessary, we'll manage the entire submission process, including coordinating with other specialists as needed. We are adept at determining the appropriate type of appeal, following the appeal timetable, and crafting high-quality grounds of appeal, appeal statements, and associated documents.
We'll carefully review both the refusal and your application to identify any weaknesses or strengths that could be emphasised. Our goal is to provide an honest assessment of your case, including the potential for success in an appeal and the associated costs.
The Supporting Appeal Statement (Statement of Case) is paramount to any planning appeal. Our approach ensures that each statement is tailored to the specific circumstances of your case, addressing pertinent issues and relevant policies—both national and local. We meticulously outline the planning grounds supporting your proposal, including addressing any complexities the case may present. This detailed approach often distinguishes us from other planning consultants and can significantly contribute to the success of the appeal.
What are the possibilities and benefits when carrying out a single storey extension?
Single-storey extensions provide a versatile way to expand your home without the complexities of multi-level construction. Here are some common uses and design ideas:
How can we help?
If a planning application appeal becomes necessary, we'll manage the entire submission process, including coordinating with other specialists as needed. We are adept at determining the appropriate type of appeal, following the appeal timetable, and crafting high-quality grounds of appeal, appeal statements, and associated documents.
We'll carefully review both the refusal and your application to identify any weaknesses or strengths that could be emphasised. Our goal is to provide an honest assessment of your case, including the potential for success in an appeal and the associated costs.
The Supporting Appeal Statement (Statement of Case) is paramount to any planning appeal. Our approach ensures that each statement is tailored to the specific circumstances of your case, addressing pertinent issues and relevant policies—both national and local. We meticulously outline the planning grounds supporting your proposal, including addressing any complexities the case may present. This detailed approach often distinguishes us from other planning consultants and can significantly contribute to the success of the appeal.
Steps to planning your extension:
Initial Consultation: Discuss your ideas with a proffesional to understand feasibility, costs, and design options.
Design and Planning: Your proffesional will advise you as to whether your extension falls under permitted development or requires planning permission, you can then work together to develop detailed plans to submit to the council.
Building Regulations Approval: Following gaining consents from the council, it is advisable to have some detailed construction drawings produced, demonstrating compliance with Parts A-S of the UK building regulations. These will then be submitted to building control.
Party Wall Agreement: If necessary, obtain agreements from neighbour’s affected by the extension.
Construction: Following building control approval, hire a reputable builder and commence construction, ensuring all work is inspected and certified as per building regulations.
Completion: Once construction is finished, obtain a completion certificate from building control, confirming that the extension meets all regulatory requirements.
Conclusion
Single-storey extensions offer a fantastic opportunity to enhance your home’s living space and value. By understanding the planning and building regulations in the UK, you can navigate the process smoothly and create a functional, beautiful addition to your home. Whether you’re looking to expand your kitchen, add a new bedroom, or create a sunlit retreat, a single-storey extension can transform your living experience.
Conclusion
Single-storey extensions offer a fantastic opportunity to enhance your home’s living space and value. By understanding the planning and building regulations in the UK, you can navigate the process smoothly and create a functional, beautiful addition to your home. Whether you’re looking to expand your kitchen, add a new bedroom, or create a sunlit retreat, a single-storey extension can transform your living experience.