Richmond upon Thames
Below Average
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Richmond upon Thames is a London planning authority covering an affluent area in southwest London with strong residential character. The council approves the majority of householder applications and takes a fairly balanced approach to new developments. One notable aspect is that appeals against refused applications succeed at a significant rate, suggesting decisions can sometimes be overturned on closer inspection.
Approval Rate
81%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
69%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
39%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
When you submit a planning application to Richmond upon Thames, you have a good chance of approval, with around 81% of householder applications being granted. However, be prepared for a slightly longer wait than ideal, as only about 69% of applications are decided within the standard 8-week timeframe, meaning some may take a bit longer. The council will carefully consider the impact on your neighbours and the local area, but most straightforward applications do get the green light. If your application is refused, it is worth noting that a significant proportion of appeals succeed, so you may have options if you disagree with a decision.
Local Planning Considerations
Richmond upon Thames has many conservation areas and protected views, particularly around Richmond town centre and along the Thames, so if your property is in one of these areas you will need to be especially thoughtful about design and appearance. The authority is also quite protective of green space and trees, so any application affecting these will receive careful scrutiny. You should check whether your property falls within any designated areas before applying, as this will significantly affect what you can and cannot do.
Tips for Homeowners
Start by having an honest conversation with the council's planning officers before submitting your application, as they can give you valuable early feedback on whether your ideas are likely to be acceptable in your specific location. Make sure your application includes really clear drawings and photographs showing exactly what you propose and how it will look, as this helps officers and neighbours understand your plans and reduces the chance of misunderstandings. Pay particular attention to how your proposal affects neighbouring properties and the street scene, as Richmond takes these impacts seriously, and show in your application how you have thought about these issues. Finally, allow plenty of time in your schedule since not all applications are decided within 8 weeks, so don't assume a quick turnaround if you have a deadline in mind.
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