Barnet
Good
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Barnet is a London borough council that covers a large area in North London with a mix of residential neighbourhoods, town centres and green spaces. The council takes a balanced approach to planning, approving the majority of householder applications while carefully considering local character and amenities. It's worth noting that just over a quarter of refused applications succeed on appeal, suggesting that some applicants find it worthwhile to challenge decisions they disagree with.
Approval Rate
83%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
82%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
28%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
When you submit a householder planning application to Barnet, you have a good chance of approval, with 83% of applications being granted. The council also performs well on speed, with 82% of applications decided within the standard 8 week timeframe, so you're unlikely to face long delays waiting for a decision. Overall, you can expect a reasonably straightforward process, though as with all planning applications, the specific circumstances of your proposal will always matter.
Local Planning Considerations
Barnet contains several conservation areas where stricter rules apply to changes to buildings and their surroundings, so if your home is in one of these areas you may face additional requirements. The borough also has areas of protected green belt and other green spaces that the council is keen to preserve, which can affect what development is permitted. Before applying, it's worth checking whether your property falls within any of these designations, as this could influence what you're able to do.
Tips for Homeowners
Start by checking your property's planning history on Barnet's planning portal, as understanding what's been approved or refused nearby can give you confidence about what's realistic for your own home. Make sure your application is as clear and detailed as possible, with good quality drawings and a thorough description of your proposals, because this helps officers make faster decisions and reduces the chance of requests for further information. Consider how your proposal fits with the character of your street and neighbourhood, and if relevant, explain in your application how you've taken local character into account, as this shows you've thought carefully about the impact of your plans.
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