Fareham

South East·E07000087·Data: 2025 Q1-Q4
80

Excellent

Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes

Fareham is a planning authority in the South East that takes a positive approach to householder applications. With an impressive 99% approval rate, it's one of the most supportive councils for homeowners looking to extend or improve their properties. The authority processes applications efficiently and maintains a reasonable balance between supporting development and protecting local character.

Approval Rate

99%

of householder applications approved

Decided Within 8 Weeks

89%

meet the statutory target

Appeal Overturn Rate

44%

of refusals overturned on appeal

What to Expect

When you submit a planning application to Fareham, you can feel confident about your chances of approval. Nearly all householder applications succeed here, which reflects a pragmatic and supportive planning culture. You should expect a decision within 8 weeks in about 9 out of 10 cases, though some applications may take a little longer depending on complexity. Overall, the authority is straightforward to work with and keen to help homeowners realise their plans.

Local Planning Considerations

Fareham has areas with conservation value that require extra care, particularly around historic town centres and village cores where certain types of alterations face stricter rules. The South East region does have some green belt land, so if your property sits near these boundaries you'll need to check whether your plans could be affected. It's worth checking your specific location early on, as this will determine which rules apply to your project.

Tips for Homeowners

Start by visiting the council's website to check whether your property has any special designations like being in a conservation area, as this shapes what you can and cannot do. Make sure your application is clear and well presented with good quality drawings and photographs, since this helps the planning team assess your proposal quickly and positively. Don't hesitate to have an informal chat with the planning department before you submit, as they're generally helpful and can point out any potential issues early on, saving you time and money later.

About the performance rating: The score out of 100 is calculated from three factors: householder application approval rate (up to 40 points), the percentage of decisions made within the 8-week statutory target (up to 30 points), and the appeal overturn rate, where a lower rate means the authority makes sound decisions that hold up on appeal (up to 20 points). A further 10 points are available for data completeness. Source: MHCLG PS2 planning statistics and Planning Inspectorate appeal decisions, 2025 Q1-Q4.

Does your project need planning permission?

Get an instant answer tailored to your address and project type.

Assess My Project