Brighton and Hove
Average
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Brighton and Hove is a vibrant coastal authority in the South East that handles planning applications with a strong approval rate. The council takes a generally positive approach to householder applications, approving 94 percent of those submitted. One notable characteristic is that while approval rates are high, the council takes longer than the national target to make decisions on some applications.
Approval Rate
94%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
52%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
34%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
When you submit a planning application to Brighton and Hove, you can be reasonably confident about getting approval, as the authority approves 94 percent of householder applications. However, you should be prepared for a potentially longer wait than you might expect elsewhere. Just over half of applications (52 percent) are decided within the standard 8 week timeframe, which means some applications do take considerably longer. Despite this slower processing, the high approval rate is genuinely reassuring for most homeowners.
Local Planning Considerations
Brighton and Hove has many conservation areas, particularly around the seafront and historic Regency squares, so if your property is in one of these areas you may face stricter rules about external changes. The South East region also has green belt protection in some areas, which can affect what you're able to build. It's worth checking whether your property has any special designations before you start planning your project.
Tips for Homeowners
Start by checking whether your property sits within a conservation area or has any other special designation, as this will significantly affect what you can do and how carefully you need to present your application. Because processing times can be longer than average, submit your application as early as possible and build extra time into your project schedule. Make sure your application is thorough and well presented from the outset, as the high approval rate suggests the council responds well to clear, professional submissions that address local planning policies properly.
Does your project need planning permission?
Get an instant answer tailored to your address and project type.
Assess My Project