Hammersmith and Fulham
Average
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Hammersmith and Fulham is a London council that handles planning applications for this vibrant riverside area. The authority has a very positive approval rate for householder applications, suggesting a generally supportive approach to residential projects. However, like many London councils, processing times can vary considerably.
Approval Rate
98%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
34%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
31%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
The good news is that 98% of householder planning applications are approved here, which is an excellent sign if your project is straightforward and well designed. You should be prepared for a longer wait than the standard 8 weeks though, as only 34% of applications are decided within this target timeframe. Most applications do eventually get approved, so if you're refused, there's a reasonable chance of success if you appeal, with 31% of appeals overturned. Overall, patience and thorough preparation will serve you well.
Local Planning Considerations
Hammersmith and Fulham contains several conservation areas where stricter rules apply to changes to building fronts, rooflines and trees, so check whether your property falls within one of these. The riverside locations and proximity to the Thames also mean some properties are in flood risk areas, which may affect certain types of development. It's worth investigating whether any local Article 4 directions apply to your property, as these can restrict certain permitted development rights.
Tips for Homeowners
Start by getting clear on whether your property is in a conservation area or other protected area, as this will shape what you can do and how carefully you'll need to present your plans. Invest time in high quality drawings and photographs that show how your proposal fits with the local area, since officers here seem to value well presented applications. If your application is refused, don't lose hope straight away, as the appeal overturn rate suggests there may be room for a successful reconsideration, though you may want professional advice before going down that route. Finally, factor in extra time for decisions here compared to the statutory 8 week target, and chase the council politely if you haven't heard back after 10 weeks.
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