Blaby
Good
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Blaby is a planning authority in the East Midlands that serves an area with a good track record of approving householder applications. The council takes a generally positive approach to residential development, with around 95% of householder applications being approved. This is a supportive environment for homeowners looking to extend or improve their properties.
Approval Rate
95%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
55%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
23%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
When you submit a planning application to Blaby, you can be reasonably confident about your chances of approval, as the authority approves the vast majority of householder applications. However, you should be prepared for the possibility that your application might take longer than the standard 8 weeks to be decided, as only around 55% of applications are processed within this timeframe. The good news is that if your application is refused, you have a reasonable chance of success on appeal, with about 23% of refused applications succeeding at this stage. Overall, Blaby is a straightforward authority to work with, though patience may be needed during the decision process.
Local Planning Considerations
Before submitting your application, check whether your property falls within a conservation area or is subject to any Article 4 directions, as these can affect what you are able to do without planning permission. The East Midlands region has various local sensitivities around green belt protection and heritage assets, so it is worth understanding your property's specific context. Research your local planning policy to see if there are any particular design or development principles that the council prioritises in your neighbourhood.
Tips for Homeowners
Make sure your application is as complete and well presented as possible from the start, as this will help the council process it quickly and reduce the risk of requests for further information that could delay your decision. Consider engaging with the council's pre application advice service before you submit formally, as this can help you understand what is likely to be acceptable and avoid potential problems. Pay close attention to local design guidance and conservation requirements if they apply to your area, and try to demonstrate how your proposals fit with the character of your neighbourhood. Finally, be prepared for the timeline to extend beyond 8 weeks and have a contingency plan in place, though you should still chase the council if you have not heard anything within this period.
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