Oldham
Average
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Oldham is a planning authority in the North West of England that takes a positive approach to householder applications. The council approves the vast majority of applications it receives, suggesting a generally supportive attitude towards homeowners looking to improve their properties. This is a busy authority that handles a significant volume of applications each year.
Approval Rate
90%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
42%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
21%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
You can be fairly confident about your chances with a householder application in Oldham, as around 90 percent of these applications are approved. However, you should be prepared for a longer wait than the standard 8 weeks, as only 42 percent of applications are decided within this timeframe. Most applications will eventually be approved, though some will take longer than others to process. If your application is refused, there is a reasonable chance of success on appeal, with 21 percent of refused applications being overturned.
Local Planning Considerations
As with much of the North West, you should check whether your property falls within a conservation area, as this can restrict certain types of work and require additional considerations. Some parts of Oldham also fall within the Green Belt, which has strict rules about what can be built. It is worth checking your property's location early on, as these designations can significantly affect what you are allowed to do.
Tips for Homeowners
Start by having a clear conversation with the planning department before submitting your application, as they can often point out potential issues early and save you time and money. Make sure your application is as complete and detailed as possible, with good quality drawings and photographs, since incomplete applications will delay the process further. Given the longer decision times in this authority, submit your application well in advance of any deadline you are working towards, and consider asking the council for a progress update if you have not heard within 10 weeks.
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