Bromley
Below Average
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Bromley is a London borough planning authority that covers a large area of Greater London with a mix of suburban neighborhoods and green spaces. The council takes a fairly balanced approach to planning decisions, approving most householder applications while maintaining local character and environmental considerations. One thing to be aware of is that while the majority of applications are approved, the council takes a bit longer than average to make decisions.
Approval Rate
78%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
65%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
34%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
When you submit a planning application to Bromley, you have a reasonable chance of approval, with around 78% of householder applications being granted. However, you should be prepared for the process to take a little longer than the standard 8 weeks, as only about 65% of applications are decided within this timeframe. Some applications may take 10 to 13 weeks, so it's worth factoring this into your project timeline. The good news is that if your application is refused, you have a fair chance on appeal, with around 34% of refused applications succeeding when challenged.
Local Planning Considerations
Bromley contains several conservation areas where extra care needs to be taken with the appearance and character of any changes you make, so check whether your property falls within one before applying. The borough also has significant areas of green belt land, which means certain types of development in these areas face stricter scrutiny. Given London's density and the green spaces Bromley aims to protect, officers pay particular attention to garden development and extensions that might impact local character.
Tips for Homeowners
Start by visiting Bromley's planning portal to check whether your property is in a conservation area or subject to any special designations, as this will significantly influence what you can do. Make sure your application is as detailed and well presented as possible, since this helps officers process it more quickly and reduces the chance of requests for further information. If you're planning a project that might be sensitive, such as a large extension or a change that affects the street scene, consider having an informal chat with the planning team before submitting formally, as this can help you understand their likely concerns and avoid delays.
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