Havering
Below Average
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Havering is a London borough in the east of the capital, covering a large area that includes both urban neighbourhoods and more suburban green spaces. The council approves the majority of householder planning applications, showing a generally supportive approach to homeowner projects. One thing to be aware of is that the council takes longer than average to make decisions on applications.
Approval Rate
81%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
57%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
28%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
When you submit a planning application to Havering, you can be reasonably confident about your chances, as the council approves around 81 out of every 100 householder applications. However, you should prepare yourself for a potentially longer wait than you might hope for, as only about 57% of applications are decided within the standard 8 week timeframe. The council may take considerably longer to process your application, so it is worth factoring this into your project timeline. If your application is refused, there is a reasonable chance you could succeed on appeal, which gives you another option to explore.
Local Planning Considerations
Havering has a mix of designated conservation areas and areas of green belt protection, both of which can affect what you are able to do with your property. Before submitting an application, it is worth checking whether your home falls within one of these protected areas, as this may mean stricter rules apply to changes you want to make. You should also be aware of any Article 4 directions in your area, which can require you to get planning permission for things that would normally be permitted development.
Tips for Homeowners
Start by having a detailed conversation with the planning team at Havering before you submit your application, as they can give you honest feedback on whether your project is likely to be approved and help you avoid costly mistakes. Make sure your application is as complete and thorough as possible from the outset, with clear drawings and a strong design statement, since this helps the council process it more quickly. Given that decisions take longer than average here, submit your application well in advance of when you actually need a decision, and try to build in extra time for any potential hold ups. If you receive a refusal, remember that appeals are relatively successful in this area, so do not lose hope without exploring that option.
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