Planning Appeals

4D Planning is a planning appeals specialist.

We help home owners and developers who have been unfairly refused planning permission, or have been served with an enforcement notice. 4D Planning has a track record with successful planning appeals, overturning refused planning applications around the UK. 

How we can help you:

4D Planning’s consultants have many years of successfully challenging planning decisions to refuse applications for planning permission. Our Chartered planners will research the refused application and advise whether there are strong grounds for planning appeals and how likely, in our opinion, the appeal will succeed. If we feel there is a small chance, we will be the first to let you know.

Once instructed we will research planning policy, precedent, case law and other material considerations to build a strong argument. We will prepare the appeal statement and appendices (as relevant) and submit the appeal to the Planning Inspectorate and respond to any counter arguments from the Council.

For further information on the process, time to appeal, how 4D Planning can help you and other useful information click here.

Our standard fee for preparing a householder appeal is £1500+VAT.

Please get in touch to discuss: appeals@4dplanning.com

If your planning application is about to be refused, you may be wondering whether it’s best to withdraw the application or proceed with a planning appeal. Each option has its own merits, and your choice will depend on several factors. Consulting a professional planning consultant such as 4D Planning can help guide you through this difficult decision and ensure the best possible outcome.

Should You Withdraw the Application?

Withdrawing your application before a formal refusal is issued can sometimes be a smart move. This approach allows you to resubmit the application with changes, avoiding a permanent mark on your planning history. In contrast, a refusal might require a planning appeal, which can be a lengthier and more complex process. If the reasons for the impending refusal are clear and solvable, it might be more efficient to address the council’s concerns upfront. For example, small design adjustments or additional information on local impact could make the application acceptable upon resubmission.

By withdrawing, you lose your right to appeal. If you choose this route, a planning consultant can help review the council’s feedback and work with you to revise your plans, ensuring they are more likely to meet the council’s requirements and guidelines for the revised application.

What if You Proceed with an Appeal?

If the reasons for refusal are more substantial or if the council’s decision appears unreasonable, you may decide that submitting a planning appeal is the best course of action. The planning appeal process is conducted by the Planning Inspectorate (also known as PINS), an independent government body that reviews the decisions made by local councils. They will re-examine the case, considering all the evidence and arguments presented.

Appealing a planning permission refusal is often more complicated than the initial application process. It requires a thorough understanding of planning policies, procedures, and legal frameworks. A professional planning consultant such as 4D Planning can provide invaluable assistance here. They will evaluate the council’s decision, assess whether an appeal is viable, and develop a robust strategy to challenge the refusal. They can also present your case to the Planning Inspectorate in the best possible light, increasing your chances of success.

Benefits of Using a 4D Planning for your planning appeal

Hiring a professional planning consultant to handle your appeal can greatly improve the likelihood of securing planning permission. Here are some key benefits:

1. Expert Knowledge of Planning Policies: Planning consultants have in-depth knowledge of local and national planning policies, which is crucial when drafting a successful appeal. They will know how to structure your case to align with both policy and precedent.
2. Strong Argumentation: A consultant can build a strong case by addressing the council’s reasons for refusal and countering any objections with evidence. This could involve technical reports, design revisions, or planning precedents.
3. Navigating the Appeals Process: The appeals process can be complex and time-consuming, involving written statements, site visits, and sometimes even hearings. A consultant will manage this process for you, ensuring all documents are submitted correctly and on time.
4. Increased Chances of Success: Appeals handled by professionals are statistically more likely to succeed. Their expertise can make a significant difference when the Planning Inspectorate reviews your case, as they know how to present the strongest possible argument in your favour.

Conclusion

Whether to withdraw or proceed with a planning appeal depends on the nature of the impending refusal and the likelihood of a successful resubmission. If the reasons for refusal are minor and easily addressed, withdrawing may be the best option on the basis that you proceed with a revised application. On the other hand, if you believe the council’s decision is flawed or unreasonable, an appeal is the best course of action. In either case, consulting 4D Planning or another professional planning consultant is highly beneficial. They can guide you through the next steps, whether it’s refining your plans or drafting a compelling appeal to the Planning Inspectorate, significantly increasing your chances of obtaining the planning permission you need.

Would you like a FREE consultation to discuss your refused application? Get in touch today and we’ll offer you no-nonsense FREE advice on the best way forward.