Is planning permission a postcode lottery?
With property prices rising and moving costs increasing, the experts at Yell.com (https://about.yell.com/) have found that more homeowners in the UK are opting for home improvements rather than relocating. This trend, driven by factors such as rising property prices and the growing costs of buying a new home, has seen more people investing in remodelling and extending to create their dream homes where they already live.
Research from TSB reveals that two in five (41%) homeowners would prefer to build an extension than move house. According to Pepper Money’s Specialist Lending Study, 41% of those surveyed said affordability of properties is preventing them from moving to a larger home elsewhere. It also found that 51% are considering a secured loan to make home improvements.
Google searches for “planning permission” are up year on year in the UK. Also, home improvement ideas are up 9900% this month. For many, redeveloping a home offers a more practical solution to moving home. Rather than facing the expenses of moving and the challenges of relocating, homeowners can transform their spaces to better meet their needs and preferences. From adding extra rooms or modernising kitchens to creating open floor plans or upgrading the home’s energy efficiency, these improvements not only add value to a property but also improve daily life.
Does this apply all over the UK?
Is planning permission a postcode lottery?
What many homeowners may not realise is that there is a planning permission postcode lottery going on across the country. In 2024, it’s harder than ever to get approval on your property, with approval rates at an all-time low. While you may expect that adding an extension to your home or converting a loft space may be a relatively straightforward option – your location could have an impact on the decision made.
With this in mind, experts at Yell have reviewed planning applications across England from July 2023 to July 2024 to compile a list of the best and worst locations for planning approval, highlighting which areas make it easiest – and hardest – to secure planning permission for your home.
Regions with the highest number of granted planning
| Local planning authority | Percentage granted (all) | Total granted (all) | % granted |
|---|---|---|---|
| South East | 36,579 | 32,922 | 90% |
| London | 26,458 | 21,490 | 81% |
| East of England | 23,193 | 20,207 | 87% |
| South West | 18,783 | 17,294 | 92% |
| North West | 16,110 | 14,462 | 90% |
| West Midlands | 13,893 | 12,444 | 90% |
| Yorkshire and the Humber | 13,293 | 11,785 | 89% |
| East Midlands | 12,202 | 11,187 | 92% |
| North East | 4,481 | 4,192 | 94% |
| National Parks | 2,612 | 2,423 | 93% |
How does Harlow fair?
Jukes Estate Agents Harlow co owner Geoff Flewers says: ” Harlow is a part of the East of England. This region performs poorly when looking at percentages of applications approved. Just 87% get approved which is the lowest in the UK apart from London.”
He continues: “Harlow however, fairs better at 89%. This is actually the UK average.”