Bassetlaw

East Midlands·E07000171·Data: 2025 Q1-Q4
55

Average

Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes

Bassetlaw is a planning authority in the East Midlands covering a largely rural area with towns including Worksop and Retford. The authority takes a generally supportive approach to householder applications, with a high approval rate reflecting a willingness to work with residents on their plans. The authority processes a moderate volume of applications and aims to balance new development with the character of the local area.

Approval Rate

88%

of householder applications approved

Decided Within 8 Weeks

27%

meet the statutory target

Appeal Overturn Rate

21%

of refusals overturned on appeal

What to Expect

When you submit a planning application to Bassetlaw, you can be fairly confident about your chances. Around 88% of householder applications are approved, which is a positive sign that the authority welcomes residential improvements and extensions. However, you should be prepared for a longer wait than the standard 8 weeks, as only 27% of applications are decided within this target timeframe. Most applications do eventually get decided, but patience will be needed as the authority works through its caseload.

Local Planning Considerations

Bassetlaw has a mix of conservation areas and green belt land that can affect what you're able to do, so it's worth checking whether your property falls within any of these designations before you start planning. The rural character of much of the district means that the authority is often careful about how new development fits with the local landscape and existing settlements. If your property is in or near a historic area, you may find there are additional considerations around appearance and materials.

Tips for Homeowners

Start by having a clear conversation with the planning team before you submit your application, as they can give you early feedback on whether your scheme is likely to be acceptable and what information they'll need. Make sure your application is thorough and well presented, with good quality drawings and a clear explanation of your project, because this helps the authority process your application more quickly. Be prepared for the longer timescale and plan your project accordingly, giving yourself extra time before you need the work completed. If your application is refused, remember that around 21% of appeals succeed, so don't lose heart, though appealing does add further time to the process.

About the performance rating: The score out of 100 is calculated from three factors: householder application approval rate (up to 40 points), the percentage of decisions made within the 8-week statutory target (up to 30 points), and the appeal overturn rate, where a lower rate means the authority makes sound decisions that hold up on appeal (up to 20 points). A further 10 points are available for data completeness. Source: MHCLG PS2 planning statistics and Planning Inspectorate appeal decisions, 2025 Q1-Q4.

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