Harrow
Average
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Harrow is a London borough in North West London with a solid track record of handling planning applications fairly and consistently. The council approves the vast majority of householder applications and aims to make decisions promptly. Overall, it's a reasonably straightforward authority to work with, though like most London boroughs it does receive a high volume of applications.
Approval Rate
83%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
74%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
22%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
You have a good chance of success with your application, as Harrow approves around 83 out of every 100 householder planning applications. The council targets deciding applications within 8 weeks, and manages this for about three quarters of cases, so you can generally expect a decision within a reasonable timeframe. Bear in mind that some applications may take longer if they need more detailed assessment or further information from you. If your application is refused, there is a meaningful chance of success on appeal, which suggests the council's initial decisions are generally sound but not inflexible.
Local Planning Considerations
Harrow contains several conservation areas where older buildings and their character are protected, so if your property is in one of these areas you may face stricter rules about what you can change. Parts of the borough also fall within or near the green belt, which restricts development on open land. It's worth checking whether your property is in any of these designated areas before you start planning your project.
Tips for Homeowners
Start by checking the council's planning portal to see if similar projects in your area have been approved recently and what conditions were attached, as this gives you a realistic sense of what the council accepts. Make sure your application is complete and detailed when you submit it, because incomplete applications cause delays and may be rejected, whereas a thorough submission from the start helps the council process it quickly. If your property is in a conservation area or another sensitive location, consider having a pre-application conversation with the planning officer before you formally apply, as this can help you understand any concerns early on and improve your chances of approval.
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