Burnley
Good
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Burnley is a planning authority in the North West that takes a straightforward approach to householder applications. The council approves the vast majority of applications it receives, which suggests a generally supportive attitude towards homeowners looking to improve their properties. It's a good authority to work with if you're planning a domestic project.
Approval Rate
92%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
76%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
29%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
When you submit a planning application to Burnley, you can feel confident about your chances of approval. Around 92% of householder applications are approved, which is a very positive figure. However, you should be aware that the council decides about three quarters of applications within the standard 8 week timeframe, so some applications may take a little longer. On the whole, this is a reasonably efficient authority to deal with.
Local Planning Considerations
Burnley has several conservation areas where additional planning rules apply, so if your property is in one of these areas you'll need to pay careful attention to how your project fits in with the character of the surroundings. The authority also has green belt land where development is more tightly controlled. Before you apply, it's worth checking whether your property falls within any of these designations, as it could affect what you're able to do.
Tips for Homeowners
Make sure your application is as complete and clear as possible from the start, as this helps Burnley process it smoothly and reduces the chance of delays or requests for more information. If your property is in a conservation area, spend extra time thinking about how your project respects the local character and be prepared to explain this in your application. Finally, don't be discouraged if your application takes slightly longer than 8 weeks to decide, as the council still has a strong track record of approving householder applications even when they need a bit more time to consider them properly.
Does your project need planning permission?
Get an instant answer tailored to your address and project type.
Assess My Project