Lewisham
Average
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Lewisham is a London borough that handles planning applications with a reasonable success rate for homeowners. The authority covers a diverse area of South London with a mix of residential neighbourhoods, and it takes a generally supportive approach to household improvements. Most applications here do get approved, which is encouraging news if you're planning to extend or improve your home.
Approval Rate
89%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
70%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
28%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
When you submit a planning application to Lewisham, you can expect a good chance of approval, with about 89% of householder applications being granted. However, be prepared for a slightly longer wait than ideal, as only 70% of applications are decided within the standard 8 week timeframe, meaning some may take a bit longer. The good news is that if your application is refused, there's a reasonable chance of success on appeal, with 28% of refused applications being overturned. In practical terms, you should aim to be patient and thorough with your submission to avoid delays.
Local Planning Considerations
Lewisham has a number of conservation areas where additional restrictions may apply to your plans, so it's worth checking whether your property sits within one of these designated zones before you apply. The borough also has areas of protected green space and specific local policies around building heights and character, particularly in established residential neighbourhoods. Getting familiar with these local considerations early on will help you design proposals that fit well with your area and have a better chance of approval.
Tips for Homeowners
Take time to understand whether your property is in a conservation area or has any other special designations, as this will shape what you can and cannot do. Engage with your neighbours early and consider their views, as strong community support can help smooth the planning process, while objections can cause delays and complications. Submit your application with clear drawings and a detailed written explanation of why your project is suitable for the location, as this helps officers assess your plans quickly and reduces the chance of requests for more information. Finally, allow extra time in your planning schedule beyond the 8 week target, as Lewisham does take longer than average to make decisions, so factor in a few additional weeks for peace of mind.
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