A shake-up of the planning appeals process is set to come into force at the start of April.

The Planning Inspectorate has confirmed that the new regulations – aimed at streamlining the system, reducing delays and encouraging more complete submissions at application stage – will come into effect on 1 April.

The revised procedures will relate to applications submitted on or after this date and will apply to the majority of appeals in England – including those against refusal, conditions and non‑determination.

Most appeals will now go via a ‘speeded-up’ Part 1 Written Representations appeal procedure via a new digital hub.

Key points to consider include:

• Appeals to be decided primarily on information already submitted with original planning application
• Applicants expected to resolve technical matters and submit full supporting evidence at application stage
• In many cases,  new or additional evidence will not be accepted at appeal stage although certain exceptions will apply

Ultimately, the new regulations will limit the opportunity to lodge further evidence or make additional lengthy statements at appeal to ‘fill in any gaps’ in the original application.

At KPPC we follow robust, carefully considered and strong strategies for the greatest chance of success whatever the planning stage.

It is critical that the prospect of appeal is considered at the outset with comprehensive third party consultants’ reports and convincing evidence included with an application.

This means it is more important than ever to gain professional, expert and bespoke advice at an early stage in the planning process.

Please contact us to find out more about these changes and our strategies to factor the new rules into your planning application or project.