East Devon
Good
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
East Devon is a planning authority in the South West of England that takes a reasonably positive approach to householder applications. With a strong approval rate and a general willingness to work with homeowners, the authority tends to support well thought out proposals. The area includes some beautiful countryside and coastal settlements, which means local character and environmental considerations often play an important role in planning decisions.
Approval Rate
93%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
69%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
34%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
When you submit a planning application to East Devon, you have a good chance of approval. Around 93 percent of householder applications are granted, which is well above the national average and suggests the authority is generally supportive of home improvements. However, you should be prepared for a longer wait than ideal, as only 69 percent of applications are decided within the standard 8 week timeframe, meaning some applications take considerably longer to be processed.
Local Planning Considerations
East Devon contains several conservation areas and parts of the area are particularly sensitive to development due to its coastal and rural character. You should check whether your property falls within a conservation area or other protected designation, as this may affect what you can do and require more detailed justification for your proposals. The South West region generally places strong emphasis on protecting landscapes and green spaces, so sustainability and local character are important factors in decisions here.
Tips for Homeowners
Start by having a good look at similar properties in your area and how they have developed, as this will give you a feel for what the local planning authority tends to accept. Make sure your application clearly explains how your proposal fits with the character of the neighbourhood and respects any local heritage or environmental features, as these considerations carry real weight in East Devon. Consider submitting your application well before any deadline you are working to, since the authority takes longer than average to make decisions, and allow extra time for any requests for further information or clarification.
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