Ashford
Good
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Ashford is a planning authority in the South East of England that takes a generally supportive approach to householder applications. With a solid approval rate and a reasonable track record on decision speeds, this is a council that aims to be helpful to homeowners looking to improve their properties. The authority tends to process most applications fairly quickly, though like all councils it can sometimes need a bit longer on more complex cases.
Approval Rate
91%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
79%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
29%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
You can feel reasonably confident about your prospects when submitting a householder application to Ashford. Around 91 out of every 100 applications are approved, which is a strong approval rate that suggests the council is genuinely open to homeowner improvements. About 79 out of every 100 applications are decided within the standard 8 week timeframe, so you can usually expect a decision within a reasonable period, though occasionally applications may take a little longer if the council needs to gather more information or consult with neighbours.
Local Planning Considerations
Like much of the South East, Ashford has areas of Green Belt where building restrictions are stricter, so you'll need to check whether your property falls within these areas before you begin. The authority also has several conservation areas where changes to the character of buildings and streetscapes are treated more carefully, which may mean you need listed building consent in addition to planning permission for some works. It's worth checking your specific location early on, as these designations can significantly affect what you're able to do.
Tips for Homeowners
Start by checking whether your property is in a conservation area or Green Belt, as this will shape what you can realistically apply for and how the council will assess your scheme. Make sure your application is complete and well presented with clear drawings and photos, as applications that need to go back and forth for more information inevitably take longer to process. If your application is refused, remember that about 29 out of every 100 refusals succeed on appeal, so don't lose heart immediately, though do think carefully about whether appealing makes sense for your project. Finally, consider getting some initial advice from a planning consultant or your council's pre application service, as investing a bit of time early on can save you money and stress later down the line.
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