Waverley
Good
Performance rating out of 100, based on approval rate, decision speed and appeal outcomes
Waverley is a planning authority in the South East of England that takes a generally supportive approach to householder applications. With an approval rate of 91%, this is a authority that tends to say yes to homeowners' plans. The area does have some particular sensitivities around protecting its character and countryside, so understanding the local context is important before you apply.
Approval Rate
91%
of householder applications approved
Decided Within 8 Weeks
71%
meet the statutory target
Appeal Overturn Rate
39%
of refusals overturned on appeal
What to Expect
You can feel reasonably confident about your chances here, as Waverley approves the vast majority of householder applications at 91%. However, you should expect that around 29% of applications will take longer than the standard 8 weeks to receive a decision, so it is worth building in some extra time to your plans. If your application is refused, there is a meaningful chance of success on appeal, with 39% of refused applications overturned, which suggests some decisions can be overturned at appeal stage.
Local Planning Considerations
Waverley covers a range of environments from town centres to countryside, and much of the area is designated as Green Belt, which means extensions and new buildings are carefully scrutinised in rural locations. The authority also has several conservation areas where older properties benefit from extra protection, and you will need to be especially sensitive to the historic character of these neighbourhoods when planning any works.
Tips for Homeowners
Start by understanding whether your property is in a conservation area or Green Belt, as this will shape what you can realistically do and will influence how you present your application. Take time to look at similar approved applications in your area on the planning portal, as this gives you a real sense of what the authority considers acceptable and helps you pitch your own proposal appropriately. Consider whether you might benefit from a pre application consultation with Waverley's planning team before submitting formally, as this early conversation can help you refine your plans and increases the chances of a smooth approval process.
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