Getting a planning application refused can feel like a huge setback, especially when you’re working on something as important as a Change of Use project. But don’t worry—it’s not the end of the road! In fact, knowing what went wrong and understanding how to planning appeal can help you turn things around. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to appeal a refusal, helping you get back on track with confidence and ease.
Why is Getting Planning Permission For Change Of Use Conversions So Important?
Planning permission is a crucial first step when it comes to any Change of Use project. It ensures that what you’re planning to do with a property is in line with local regulations, local community, local planning authority requirements and standards, and long-term planning goals. Without the proper permission, your project could face legal challenges, and you might even have to reverse any changes you’ve made. By securing the right approval, you not only protect yourself from broad and diverse range potential issues (like receiving an enforcement notice) down the road but also help ensure that your project is a positive addition to the the local community and area. Simply put, granted planning permission, it’s all about doing things the right way and giving your project the best chance for success.
Can I Change the Use of My Property Without Planning Permission?
In some cases, you might be able to carry out certain changes to a property without full planning permission. This is possible through permitted development rights, which allow for specific alterations or conversions without needing formal approval. However, general permitted development order are quite restricted and come with various conditions. To find out more about whether your project qualifies for these rights, check out our Guide on Changing The Use of Your Property Without Planning Permission.
How Long Does Planning Permission Take?
One of the common questions people have when starting a Change of Use project is, “How long does planning permission take?” The process can vary depending on your project’s complexity and the local planning authority’s procedures. Typically, it takes between 8 to 13 weeks for a decision to be made, but in some cases, it may take longer if your application requires additional details or revisions. To get a better idea of planning appeal for change of use project the timelines and the factors that can affect your application, you can read in more detail about it in our article on How Long Planning Permission Takes in the UK.
What Happens If You Build Without Planning Permission?
So, let’s say you decide to go ahead with your project without obtaining planning permission first. What happens next? In this case town and country planning say or local planning authority, you might receive an enforcement notice and then you might need to apply for retrospective permission. This is a way of seeking approval revised planning application after the fact, but it’s not always guaranteed that you’ll be allowed to keep the changes you’ve made. The local planning authority will review your project, and if it does not align with local or national planning policy framework or policies, you may be asked to make changes or remove the alterations entirely. To learn more about how to proceed if you’ve already started or completed your project without planning approval, check out our detailed guide on Retrospective Planning Permission.
What Happens if a Planning Application is Refused?
If your planning application doesn’t get approved, it’s important to take a deep breath and look at the next steps. The refusal will come with an explanation of why your application was turned down. Common reasons include not meeting local planning guidelines, potential environmental impacts, public interest or opposition from the local community. Our Town Planners could look at your decision notice and advise you on whether you need a Planning Appeal or go ahead with a Resubmission. Contact Us to get a professional planning advice from our expert team.
The refusal notice will clearly outline the reasons behind the decision, giving you the chance to see what can be done next. Often, there are small changes you can make to address the issues raised. In some cases, though, larger adjustments may be required. This notice is a key document, as it helps you decide whether to planning appeal, withdraw, or revise your application.
A refusal doesn’t mean the end of development order your project; it simply means there’s room to improve your plans before moving forward. One of the solutions is lodging a planning appeal to the planning inspectorate.
Is it Better to Withdraw a Planning Application or Have it Refused?
When your planning application is met with a decision notice of refusal, it can be tempting to go to a planning appeal right away, but it’s worth considering whether withdrawing the application might be a better option first. If you withdraw, you can take the time to address any concerns raised and resubmit a revised version without the mark of refusal on your record.
On the other hand, if the refusal reasons are clear and you believe the issues can be addressed easily, appealing might be a good choice. A planning appeal could potentially result in a less decision date a favourable outcome if you can demonstrate how your project meets the necessary criteria. Ultimately, deciding whether to withdraw or appeal depends on the specifics of your situation, so it’s worth carefully evaluating the feedback and how easy it might be to amend your plans.
For personalised guidance and professional advice on your planning application, feel free to Reach Out to Us. We’re here to help!
What Could Prevent Me from Getting Planning Permission?
There are a few things that could stand in the way of getting permission, but don’t worry—knowing what they are helps you plan better and avoid surprises! Here are some not the amount common reasons why proposed development applications get turned down:
- Not Following Local Rules: Every area has specific rules about what you can and can’t do with your property. If your project doesn’t fit within these rules, it could be rejected.
- Harming the Environment: Planning authorities care a lot about the local environment. If your project could negatively impact nature, like harming wildlife or damaging natural resources, it might not get approved.
- Lack of Infrastructure: Sometimes the roads, utilities, or drainage systems might not be able to handle the changes your project could bring. If this is the case, your application might not be successful.
- Objections from Neighbours or the Community: If local residents or groups are worried about how your project could affect them, such as with more traffic or noise, they may raise objections. These can influence the decision.
The good news is that you can avoid many of these issues by planning ahead! Seeking Pre-Planning Advice before you submit your application is a great way to get expert feedback and make sure you’re on the right track. It’ll help you address any potential problems before they become a hurdle. If you’d like to learn more about planning system, feel free to check out our Pre-Planning Advice page!
How to Appeal a Refused Planning Application?
If your planning application has been refused, a Planning Appeal gives you the opportunity to challenge that decision. This formal process allows you to present additional information, address any concerns raised, and ask the planning inspectorate to review the council’s decision. It’s an important step in the process, especially when you’re confident that the original planning decision made by local authority doesn’t fully reflect your project’s potential or the considerations you’ve made. By appealing, you get a second chance to demonstrate why your change of use project should move forward.
Here’s how you can go about it:
- Review the Refusal Notice: The first step is to carefully read the refusal notice to fully understand the specific reasons for the refusal. This is essential for addressing the concerns raised by the local planning authority.
- Gather Supporting Evidence: Once you know the reasons for refusal, it’s time to gather any evidence or expert opinions that can help counter those points. This could include expert reports, revised plans, or additional data that strengthens your application. At Homz, we can assist you in preparing the necessary documentation and expert advice to support your appeal, ensuring your case is as strong as possible. Contact us today to get professional guidance on your planning application appeal.
- Submit Your Planning Appeal: To proceed with your appeal, you must submit it to the Planning Inspectorate within the specified timeframe, which is typically 6 months from the date of refusal. Make sure to include all required documents to ensure the process goes smoothly.
- Prepare for the Planning Appeal Hearing: Whether your appeal is heard in person or through a written process, it’s essential to be well-prepared. This involves clearly addressing each reason for the refusal and presenting your case in a thorough and organized way.
- Follow Up: Once your appeal is submitted, it’s important to stay informed about the progress of your case. Be prepared for any further requirements or questions that may arise during the appeal process.
If you require assistance during the application stage of this process, feel free to contact us for expert guidance. The Homz Team is here to help you navigate the process and increase your chances of a successful outcome.
How Much Does it Cost to Appeal a Planning Refusal?
The expenses involved in appealing a planning refusal can differ depending not the actual amount, but on your case’s complexity and if you choose to seek professional assistance. While there are no direct fees for submitting an appeal, additional costs may be incurred if you decide to hire professionals, such as planning consultants or legal experts, to help improve your chances of success.
At Homz, we’re here to help! We offer friendly, expert guidance to support you through the appeal process. If you’re wondering about the costs, feel free to Contact Us or Use Our Cost Calculator to get an estimate for your project.
Why Appeal a Planning Refusal? And Why Homz is the Right Choice for Your Planning Appeal Process
Facing a planning refusal can feel daunting, unnecessary or wasted expense but remember, it’s not the end of the road. By appealing, you have the opportunity to address the refusal points and present a stronger case. With the right preparation and support, you can turn things around and get your project back on track.
This is where Homz can make a difference with professional services. Our team of experts is here to help you navigate this process smoothly, ensuring you have all the guidance and evidence needed for a successful outcome. We’ll work closely with you to address any concerns, whether it’s refining your application or offering strategic advice on complex cases.
Don’t let a refusal hold you back. Get in touch with us today for professional advice and let us help you move forward with confidence. Contact us here, and let’s take the next step together!
FAQ – Planning Appeal Process for Change of Use Projects
How long do I have to appeal a planning refusal?
In England and Wales, you have 6 months from the date of the refusal to submit a full statement of your planning appeal. It’s essential to act within the time limit of this timeframe to ensure you don’t lose the opportunity to challenge the decision.
What can I do to increase the chances of a successful appeal?
To improve your likelihood of a successful planning appeal, it’s essential to gather relevant supporting materials, such as professional insights, updated plans, and additional information that directly address the reasons for refusal. Seeking expert advice from planning consultants can also simplify the process and enhance its effectiveness. At Homz, our team of planning specialists is dedicated to guiding you through every stage of the this process, ensuring your case is as strong as possible. With our expertise, we can assist you in crafting a compelling argument to boost your chances of a successful outcome. Contact us today for expert advice to your needs!
What happens if I submit a planning application without the necessary information?
A local authority or other party or executive agency can refuse to accept your application if it lacks sufficient information or doesn’t meet the necessary requirements prior approval. To avoid delays, make sure your application is complete and follows all the guidelines.
What is pre-planning advice, and why is it important?
Pre-planning advice is the process of consulting with local authorities before submitting your application. This step allows you to spot potential issues early, which can significantly improve the chances of your application being approved. At Homz, we provide expert advice to make sure your project complies with all regulations from the very beginning. Learn more about the importance of pre-planning advice on our website.
Can I appeal a planning refusal on my own, or do I need professional help?
While you can appeal a planning refusal independently, it’s highly recommended to seek professional advice to navigate the complexities of the planning appeal process. At Homz, our team of experts can guide you through the planning appeals system at every step, ensuring your appeal has the best chance of success.
What happens if I proceed with work without permission?
If you move forward without obtaining planning permission, you may need to apply for retrospective planning approval. If this application is denied, you could be required to undo the changes, which may result in significant costs. For more information, check our Retrospective Planning Permission Guide.
