Liverpool
Average
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Liverpool City Council handles planning applications across the city and is generally supportive of householder projects, with a strong approval rate. The council takes a balanced approach to development, though like many authorities it can take a bit longer than the standard timeframe to make decisions. One thing worth knowing is that Liverpool has a relatively high number of listed buildings and conservation areas, which can affect certain types of work.
Approval Rate
91%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
61%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
38%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
When you submit a planning application to Liverpool, you have a good chance of approval. Around 91 out of every 100 householder applications are approved, which is a positive sign that the council is generally reasonable about home improvements. However, you should be prepared for the decision to take a little longer than you might hope, as only about 61 per cent of applications are decided within the standard 8 week timeframe. That said, if your application is refused, there is a decent chance of success on appeal, with around 38 per cent of refused applications being overturned.
Local Planning Considerations
Liverpool has a significant number of listed properties and conservation areas throughout the city, so if your home falls within one of these designations you will need to be more careful about what changes you can make. The North West region also has areas of green belt land, which may restrict certain types of development on the edges of the city. It is worth checking whether your property has any of these designations before you start planning your project.
Tips for Homeowners
Before you apply, take time to understand the local planning policies for your area, as Liverpool has specific requirements around heritage and conservation that could affect your application. Get your application right first time by including plenty of detail and clear drawings, since going back and forth with the council can add weeks to the process. If your application might be borderline, it could be worth having an informal chat with the planning team before you submit, as they can often point out potential issues early on. Finally, remember that patience is a virtue with this authority since decisions take a bit longer, so try to factor in extra time when planning your project timeline.
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