Hart
Average
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Hart is a planning authority covering an area in the South East of England. The council takes a moderately permissive approach to householder applications, approving the vast majority of schemes. One thing to note is that a significant proportion of refused applications go on to succeed at appeal, which suggests decisions can sometimes be inconsistent.
Approval Rate
84%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
73%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
40%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
When you submit a householder planning application to Hart, you have a good chance of approval. Around 84 percent of householder applications are approved, so most people find their schemes get the green light. You can expect a decision within 8 weeks in roughly 73 percent of cases, though some applications do take longer. The council is reasonably efficient, though not exceptionally fast compared to the best performing authorities.
Local Planning Considerations
The South East region includes various types of sensitive locations, so you should check whether your property falls within a conservation area, on green belt land, or subject to any Article 4 directions that restrict certain types of development. Hart's area may include countryside or semi rural locations where the council pays particular attention to protecting the character of the landscape. It is always worth checking the local planning policies specific to your property before you start designing your project.
Tips for Homeowners
Start by having a detailed look at Hart's local planning policies and any design guidance they publish, as this will show you what the council values and what might cause them to refuse your application. Because around 40 percent of refused applications succeed on appeal, it is worth submitting a strong application first time rather than planning to appeal, as appeals take longer and cost more money. If your application is refused, do not despair, as you have a reasonable chance of overturning the decision, but it is far better to get it right from the start by understanding what the council is looking for.
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