Our repeated successes on householder planning appeals in west and north-west London
We have secured a large number of appeal successes following refusals of planning permission for householder development across west and north-west London, particularly in the London Borough of Ealing, London Borough of Harrow, London Borough of Hillingdon, London Borough of Hounslow, London Borough of Brent and London Borough of Barnet.
A significant proportion of our recent appeal work has been in these boroughs. They tend to refuse a higher number of planning applications than many other councils, particularly in relation to householder development such as extensions, dormer loft conversions and outbuildings.
Harrow is well known for taking a strict approach to householder development and continues to rely heavily on its Residential Design Guide when assessing proposals. As a result, a high number of applications for extensions are refused at application stage. In our experience, many of these decisions perform better when reassessed independently at appeal, particularly where the council’s concerns rely on rigid application of guidance rather than clear, site-specific harm.
Hillingdon also takes a cautious approach to larger extensions, particularly where proposals are visible from the street. Two-storey side extensions and infill development are frequently resisted. We regularly advise clients appealing refusals of this type, where the key issues tend to relate to character, scale and streetscene impact.
Hounslow, Brent and Barnet also feature prominently in our appeal work. In Hounslow, refusals commonly relate to outbuildings and ancillary accommodation, and we are frequently instructed on both planning appeals and enforcement cases in the borough. In Brent and Barnet, appeals often concern single-storey rear extensions and modest alterations to existing dwellings.
Across all of these boroughs, a recurring issue is that planning decisions are sometimes taken without sufficient regard to the specific characteristics of the site or the surrounding area. At appeal, inspectors appointed by the government will look closely at the immediate context, comparable development nearby and whether the alleged harm is clearly demonstrated.
If you are in one of the outer west or north-west London boroughs and have recently been refused planning permission for a householder development, it is always worth considering whether an appeal may provide a fairer and more balanced assessment. We are happy to offer a free initial review and advise on the prospects of success.
