Adur
Good
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Adur is a planning authority in the South East of England that covers a coastal area with a generally approachable attitude towards homeowners. The council approves the vast majority of householder applications, making it a relatively straightforward place to get planning permission. Like many South East authorities, Adur balances development with protecting its local character and heritage.
Approval Rate
95%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
59%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
25%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
You can feel confident that Adur is receptive to householder planning applications, with 95% of applications being approved. However, you should be prepared for a wait, as only 59% of decisions are made within the standard 8 week timeframe, so some applications can take longer. The council will carefully consider how your proposal fits with local planning policies, but the approval rate suggests they take a pragmatic view of reasonable residential requests. If your application is refused, there is a reasonable chance of success on appeal, which happens in about 25% of cases.
Local Planning Considerations
The Adur area includes several conservation areas and coastal zones where additional planning rules apply, so it's worth checking whether your property falls within one of these protected areas before you apply. The South East generally has limited green belt compared to other regions, but you should still verify your property's location and any specific local constraints. Coastal properties in particular may face additional considerations around flooding and environmental protection.
Tips for Homeowners
Start by having a clear conversation with the planning team at Adur before you submit anything formal, as their approachability means they are usually happy to discuss your ideas and flag any potential issues early on. Make sure your application is well presented and clearly explains how your proposal respects the local area, especially if you are in or near a conservation area, as this will strengthen your chances. Be realistic about timescales and aim to submit your application well before any deadline you have in mind, since the council takes longer than 8 weeks on some applications, and building in extra time reduces stress.
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