Prior Approval Planning Appeal
Need help with your Prior Approval Planning Appeal?
Prior approval is a streamlined planning process that allows certain types of development to proceed without the need for a full planning application.
However, if your prior approval application is refused or not determined within the specified timeframe, you have the right to appeal.
We can guide you through the concept of prior approval, the types of projects it covers, and the appeal process if your application is unsuccessful.
What is Prior Approval and What Project Types Does It Cover?
Prior approval falls under the umbrella of permitted development rights but requires you to seek approval from the local planning authority on certain aspects of the development before proceeding.
The key features of the prior approval process include:
Faster than full planning permission
Limited assessment criteria
Specific timeframes for decisions
Deemed approval if not determined in time
Project types covered by prior approval include:
Residential extensions e.g. larger home extensions (beyond standard permitted development limits) and additional storeys on existing homes
Change of use e.g. commercial to residential conversions and agricultural buildings to residential use
New dwellings e.g. upward extensions to create new flats and demolition and rebuilding for residential use
Telecommunications
Agriculture and forestry buildings
Temporary uses, such as, temporary school buildings
Solar panel installations
Demolition
Each of these project types has specific criteria and conditions that must be met to qualify for prior approval, which may include:
Transport and highways impact
Contamination risks
Flooding risks
Design and external appearance
Noise impact
Natural light provision
Impact on amenity of the area
The Prior Approval Appeal Process
If your prior approval application is refused or not determined within the specified timeframe or you don’t agree with the conditions, you have the right to appeal to the Planning Inspectorate.
Timeframe to appeal:
For householder prior approvals: 12 weeks from the date of decision or expiry of the determination period
For other prior approvals: 6 months from the date of decision or expiry of the determination period
Appeal procedure: Most prior approval appeals are handled through written representations. In some cases, a hearing or public inquiry may be necessary.
Timescales to reach a decision: On average, the Planning Inspectorate makes its decision within about 28 weeks of the appeal submission. More complex cases may take longer
Remember that the appeal process for prior approval is similar to that for full planning applications, but with a focus on the specific criteria relevant to the type of development in question.
Our Latest Appeal Successes
Our Planning Appeal Services
In addition to our Prior Approval planning appeal service, we handle a wide range of planning appeals, including:
Contact Us to Discuss Your Prior Approval Project
Whether you're considering a prior approval application or facing an appeal, we can:
Assess your project's eligibility for prior approval
Prepare and submit robust prior approval applications
Provide expert guidance on addressing reasons for refusal
Develop compelling appeal statements and supporting evidence
Represent you throughout the appeal process
Contact our team let us guide you through the prior approval and appeal process with confidence.
Request Your Planning Appeal Consultation Today
