Charnwood
Average
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Charnwood is a planning authority covering parts of the East Midlands, including the area around Loughborough. The council approves the majority of householder applications and takes a reasonably straightforward approach to residential development. One thing worth noting is that while most applications are approved, there is a meaningful proportion that take longer than the standard 8-week timeframe to decide.
Approval Rate
86%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
74%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
42%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
When you submit a householder planning application to Charnwood, you have a good chance of approval, with 86% of applications being granted. However, you should be prepared for the possibility that your application might take longer than the standard 8 weeks to be decided, as only 74% are processed within this timeframe. Despite this, the council is generally supportive of residential improvements and extensions. If your application is refused, you do have a reasonable prospect of success on appeal, with 42% of refused applications being overturned at appeal.
Local Planning Considerations
Charnwood covers a mix of urban and rural areas, so it is worth checking whether your property falls within a conservation area or the green belt, as these designations will affect what you can do. The authority also has various Article 4 directions in place in certain locations that remove permitted development rights, so you should verify your property's status before assuming you have automatic rights to extend or alter it.
Tips for Homeowners
Start by having a clear conversation with the planning team at Charnwood before you submit anything formal, as they are usually willing to give informal advice and this can save time and money later. Make sure your application is as complete and detailed as possible from the outset, because any missing information or poor quality drawings will only delay the decision. Given that a quarter of applications take longer than 8 weeks, it is worth building extra time into your plans and not assuming a speedy decision. Finally, if you are refused, do not despair, as there is a reasonable chance of success on appeal if you believe the decision was wrong.
Does your project need planning permission?
Get an instant answer tailored to your address and project type.
Assess My Project