How long does a planning application take?

Your local authority should give you an idea of the timetable of your application. Most planning applications are decided within eight weeks, however, if your project is unusually large or complex, this can be extended to thirteen weeks.

If they cannot decide your application within eight weeks, then they should obtain your written consent to extend the time period. If they do not obtain your written consent, you can appeal this to the Secretary of State. However, appeals can take several months so it may be quicker to reach an agreement with your Local Planning Authority.

You can make an appeal and have the matter resolved by the Planning Inspector if the local planning authority turns down an application or allows it, but only subject to conditions the applicant finds unacceptable.

TerraQuest Solutions, who operate the Planning Portal, can offer a range of Planning Services to Local Planning Authorities. Our Officers can support Planning departments handle their increased workload, clear application backlogs, and process all types of applications. Whether it be to assist with the validation of planning applications or to process applications from registration through to a decision, TerraQuest will help improve productivity and reduce the strain placed on Planning teams.