It’s a common fear amongst homeowners that their local council will reject a planning application. At Home Tales our planning applications have a 99% success rate, with a knowledgeable team on hand to take you through the process. But why could an extension be refused? And how do we ensure that our applications receive approval?

We work across London and it’s important to note that there isn’t a standard across all boroughs. Different councils have different expectations and allowances, which we as experts have the experience in navigating. Even in attempting to undertake work under permitted development (what’s that? read here) the council will still consider the application and only issue a certificate if they agree that it complies with certain criteria. Permitted development guidelines do change over time and are not accessible to those seeking to undertake most external and heavy works on flats – an extension added to a flat will require full planning permission.

As for why an extension could be refused, a rejection is likely if it overshadows or overlooks a neighbour’s home, causing them loss of light or privacy.  It could also be due to its impact on the neighbourhoods’ amenities. An amenity as described in the Mayor of London’s ‘London Plan’ is “an element of a location or neighbourhood that helps to make it attractive or enjoyable for residents and visitors”. Local authorities have a duty to protect the standard of living for residents and your application could be rejected if it is seen as a threat toward it. A negative effect on an area’s character is a further frequent issue though this is heavily subjective, a proposal seen to be altering an areas pattern of development could see issues arise. We wouldn’t blame anyone for feeling a little confused here and it’s why we always give transparent advice on designs, tailoring size and proposed materials to increase the likelihood of approved planning.

Complications may also arise if your home falls within an area of conservation. We’ve explored the impact of extending in a conservation area (read here) as there are often additional factors such as architectural, historical, or even wildlife interests that will influence what a council will permit. An extension to a home must be seen to enhance the existing property, with the design aiming to not impose or dominate the original building or cause harm to protected wildlife such as badger habitats. This appears challenging, but we have plenty of experience securing planning permission for properties within conservation areas. With an understanding of restrictions and sensitive designing, we have found success in meeting our clients’ expectations whilst managing the demands of these areas.

We’re often asked if a council will reject an application if a neighbour raises objection.  When planning is submitted, your neighbours are notified of the proposed plans and offered with an opportunity to make comments on the application. This can be in support for or against the development. Just because they object does not mean it will be rejected and whilst comments are considered by the council, they do not sway the entire decision – particularly if they are not legitimate concerns supported by policy. Your planning history and any previous failed applications have no bearing on a new application. Your age, health and background are also not relevant to the decision, neither is the time frame of the proposed extension (though you will have to start works within 3 years of granted planning.)

Although we’ve laid out the primary reasons an application can be rejected it’s important to be reassured that when designing with Home Tales the headache is taken away by our commitment to the process. We produce a planning set when we’re confident both you and the council will be satisfied with the proposed plans. We prepare all relevant documents and after submitting will regularly contact the case officer to ensure the application is on track, undertaking all communication with the council on your behalf to ensure a speedy approval.

If you are thinking of extending and want to understand more about how your local council can affect your design and build, contact our team today on 0207 043 2378. We would be delighted to discuss your project in further detail and advise further. You can also book a free, no obligation telephone consultation via our online booking page here.