Mole Valley
Below Average
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Mole Valley is a planning authority in Surrey covering towns including Dorking and Leatherhead. The council approves around three quarters of householder applications, which suggests a reasonably straightforward approach to residential projects. However, the authority takes longer than average to make decisions, so patience is needed during the process.
Approval Rate
78%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
55%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
29%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
When you submit a householder application to Mole Valley, you have a good chance of approval as roughly 78% of applications are granted. However, you should be prepared for a longer wait than the standard 8 weeks, as only about half of applications are decided within this timeframe. Many applications will take 10 to 12 weeks or occasionally longer, so it's worth factoring this into your planning. Despite the slower pace, the council does eventually make clear decisions on most applications.
Local Planning Considerations
Much of Mole Valley sits within the Green Belt, which can restrict certain types of development, so check whether your property is affected before applying. The area also contains several conservation areas and listed buildings, particularly around the historic towns, which may mean stricter rules apply to alterations and extensions. Tree preservation orders are also common across the district, so you may need consent before removing or significantly pruning trees.
Tips for Homeowners
Since decisions take longer than the standard timeframe, submit your application well in advance of any deadline you're working to, and consider contacting the planning team early to discuss your project before making a formal submission. Make sure you understand whether your property falls within a conservation area or the Green Belt, as these will affect what you can do and how you should present your application. Given that the council does eventually approve most householder applications, focus on providing clear drawings and a well reasoned justification for your project, as this helps officers assess your plans thoroughly.
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